An enthusiastic transplant from the East Coast, Michael Zocco loves spreading joy about Austin, Texas, as a fantastic running city. “It’s a very special community,” says the co-city lead for the Endorphin Running Club, Austin Area. Zocco and his co-lead, Makayla Bassi, host group runs every Monday evening and occasionally other weekdays, plus long runs on Saturdays. Whatever the day, the message remains one of inclusivity and positivity through running.
“Our goal,” says Zocco, “is to expand as much as possible, where we can get people from all different paces and experience levels to be able to share that same space: endorphins.”
Zocco says he loves how other running groups and clubs around town offer group runs throughout each week. “That makes Austin so special,” he says.
The majority of runners in Austin head to the multiuse trail around Lady Bird Lake, which is actually a segment of the Colorado River. Teeming with runners and other recreationalists, the ten miles of smooth path along the waterfront is a testament to Austin’s health-and-fitness-loving vibe.
