TRAINING CLASS DESCRIPTION
The 2026 Gate River Run Training Class is a nine-week program designed to prepare runners and walk/runners for the Gate River Run on Saturday, March 7, 2026. The class kicks off on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 6:15 PM inside 1st Place Sports, Baymeadows (3931 Baymeadows Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32217).
Come prepared for a short group run following a brief introduction. Wear light or reflective gear, as it will be dark.
If you’re unsure whether the class is right for you, you’re welcome to attend the kickoff to learn more. Our past participants, Pace Leaders, and Coach will be there to answer questions and help you decide. Whether this is your first Gate River Run or one of many, this class offers the best training support in town!
YOUR RUNNING LEVEL
This program welcomes runners and walk/runners of all paces, everyone is encouraged to participate! It is recommended that you are running or walk/running 2–3 times per week for 2–3 miles before the class begins. If you’re building back up, take it slow and steady as you ease into the program.
Pace groups will be available for a variety of speeds, and you’ll receive guidance to help tailor your training to your personal fitness level, time constraints, and running goals.
Whether you’re running your first Gate River Run or chasing a PR, this class brings together runners of all levels, typically more than 100 participants all sharing the same goal of becoming stronger, more confident, and ready to tackle the Gate River Run.
GROUP RUNS
Tuesdays:
Other than the first class of the season. All remaining Tuesday group runs meet at 6:15 PM near the Winston Family YMCA on the Riverwalk. Each session includes a brief discussion followed by a group run starting around 6:30 PM (approximately 50 minutes).
Saturdays:
Group long runs will take place on Saturday morning at 7:00 AM and take place at various locations across Jacksonville — including Downtown, Ortega, Nocatee, San Marco, and the Beaches.
Distances will increase each week, preparing you for race day.
Attendance at every session isn’t required, but for the best results, plan to train at least 3 times per week (including class sessions and your own runs).
TOPICS COVERED
Most Tuesday sessions will include a short discussion before the run, covering topics such as:
- Training plan development
- Stretching & foam rolling
- Injury prevention
- Running shoe selection
- Nutrition & hydration
- Running apparel & specialty gear
- Strength and cross-training
- Race week and race day preparation
TRAINING CLASS COACH
The class is coached and organized by Sharon Langieri, a certified RRCA running coach with a passion for helping runners reach their goals. Sharon has been an avid runner since 2001 and has directed and managed running events nationwide for over a decade. She has raced distances from the mile to the marathon and brings several years of experience as both a pace leader and coach.
Her mission is to help runners build strength, confidence, and community while enjoying the process. Alongside Sharon, an amazing team of dedicated Pace Leaders will guide and support you throughout the program.
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Registration is online. There is no fee for credit/debit card payment online. Participants in prior Training Classes will be emailed $5 discount codes for entry in this class.
JTC Member Non Member
Through Jan. 13, 2026: $50 $65 (includes one year membership)
Starting Jan. 14, 2026: $60 $75 (includes one year membership)
Active members who have done a previous class will be emailed a code to register at the $45 previous class rate.
Class shirts are a $12 option for all entrants.
CONTACT INFORMATION
For more information continue checking online at www.jtcrunning.com, or e-mail Sharon at mailto:sharonlangieri@gmail.com (with a subject line “Gate River Run 2026”). If you need to talk to Sharon, you may phone her at (386) 503-1341. Text or e-mail is the preferred and primary contact method for the class.
Value of JTC Running Membership
Founded in October 1975, JTC Running is Northeast Florida’s preeminent promoter of healthy lifestyles through running, fitness, and fellowship. It is both a social club with several varying events per year and a philanthropic organization that seeks to benefit runners of all types.
Benefits:
- A subscription to “The Starting Line” - our bimonthly newsletter about the club, events, and running information.
- Discounted entry fees at most JTC Running events (Gate River Run, Summer & Winter Beach Runs, Guana, Last Gasp)
- Social events - through the year we have non-running casual get togethers.
- Training runs at different locations throughout Jacksonville- many of which have running mentors.
- Coached members-only track workouts Wednesday 5:30 am and 5:30 pm at The Bolles School
