Who we are
Nearly 50 Years
Running Oakland
Lake Merritt Run Club — formerly Lake Merritt Joggers & Striders — has been a solid and consistent presence in the East Bay running community since July 18, 1977. Our journey started at Oakland's Lake Merritt and has grown into a true community with support for every type of runner.
"Running is more than just miles; it's the shared breath of a community in motion. While our name is changing, our pulse remains the same."
Whether you're lacing up for the first time or chasing a marathon PR on the trails — we are here for every stride.
Our story →
Training programs
Train for Something
Four programs for every level — from your very first run to a marathon finish line. RRCA-certified coaches, structured plans, real community.
5 sessions at Lake Merritt. Run/walk intervals, RRCA coaches, all abilities welcome.
→6 weeks of structured speedwork at Clark Kerr Track, Berkeley. Tuesdays at 6pm. All paces welcome.
→6 sessions building uphill/downhill technique across 3 levels. Tuesdays at 6pm in the East Bay hills. Led by Coach Jeanine.
→Official Oakland Marathon training program since 2010. 18 weeks full, 12 weeks half. Kickoff Nov 22.
→Our races
Four Signature Races
From monthly Lake Merritt loops to epic East Bay trail races — some of the region's most beloved events.
Get involved
More Ways to Connect
Donut Run Fridays at Snow Park, Saturday Social Run at rotating East Bay locations, and Saturday Long Run led by experienced runners & club members — all paces, all abilities.
See road runs →
Rotating East Bay parks every Sunday — Tilden, Chabot, Redwood and more across the Bay Area. Distance options for every level.
See trail runs →Community in action
Life at Lake Merritt Run Club
Races, trails, donuts, and everything in between.
We are evolving and moving forward in a fresh and iconic direction. Our journey started at Lake Merritt nearly 50 years ago, and has grown into a true community with support for every type of runner.
Our sponsors
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Running stores listed as sponsors offer Lake Merritt Run Club members a discount on non-sale items. We thank all our sponsors for their continued support of our club, training programs, and racing team.
Interested in becoming a sponsor? Email sponsor@lakemerrittrunclub.org