Cap City Runners: Running Through the Community, Inspiring Culture

More Than Just a Run Group – It's a Movement

Our mission is to inspire a community of running by running in the community. We aim to help individuals in the Capital City of Albany discover their own greatness through running, whether they've ever considered it before or not.

Our Cap City Family

Join us and become part of our running community

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What We Do

We are building a vibrant and sustainable community. Cap City Runners is an open door, a "no judgment zone," community welcoming people of all paces, faces, abilities, ages, and stages. Our focus is on getting our community to take an active role in their physical health and well-being.

Join Us Every Saturday

Every Saturday, join the Cap City Community Group Run/Walk! We meet at 7:45 AM in front of Alias Coffee (76 N Pearl St) in Downtown Albany, with the run beginning promptly at 8:00 AM. Afterward, enjoy coffee and camaraderie with the Cap City crew.

Experience the Cap City Vibe

Feel the power of positive energy that pushes you to do more or simply enjoy the collectiveness of running with like-minded individuals. Our aim is to build a space where people can be themselves, have a great time, and build lasting friendships.

Beyond the Run

This movement is about more than just physical activity; it's about mental well-being, community building, and personal growth.

Meet Our Founders

The heart of the movement - four passionate individuals who started Cap City Runners

Don Applyrs

Don Applyrs, Ed,D

Founder

A native of Brooklyn, NY, Don began his running journey in 2015, Don ran a “Just Do It Sunday” 5K every week before running for his first half marathon in 2018 and his first marathon (NYC 2022). His passion for running combined with the influence of friends in the New York City running scene led to his vision for Cap City Runners to address the need for a diverse running community in Albany.

Markael Brace

Markael "Kaelz" Brace

Co-Founder

Referred to as "Mr. don't put your health on the shelf" and a "legend in two games" (running and basketball). Initially started running for weight loss and health, typically doing 2.5 to 4 miles. Joining Cap City Runners transformed his journey, pushing him to run 10 miles and beyond. Felt the power and consistency of the group from the start.

Angelo Justice Maddox Jr.

Angelo "Justice" Maddox Jr.

Co-Founder

Commonly known as "Mr. 4Ms" (Money Making Motivation Monday). Emphasizes the power of Black men working together as a collective consistently, believing this visible unity can inspire the community in various aspects of life. He was present from the beginning, feeling the power and presence of the movement.

Alison Sifflet

Alison Sifflet

Co-Founder

Ali’s running journey started in 2019, thanks to joining a running community in Houston, TX. Ali believes that the impact running has on her life mentally, physically, and spiritually is really where beauty lies. She loves seeing the growth and feelings of accomplishment in others as they discover their ability to go a little farther than where they started. She believes there is no better place to witness that growth and sense of community than Cap City Runners.

Media Coverage

Cap City Runners in the news - celebrating our impact on the community

Times Union

"Cap City Runners celebrating 160 years Juneteenth" - Coverage of our Juneteenth Challenge commemorating emancipation.

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CBS6 Albany

"Cap City Runners launch 160-mile challenge to honor Juneteenth" - Coverage of our community challenge and mission.

Watch Coverage
News10

"Community Corner: Cap City Runners aim to inspire the 518" - Feature on our mission to inspire the Capital Region.

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Connect With Us

Follow our journey and join the conversation

Instagram

Follow us for daily inspiration, run photos, and community updates.

@capcityrunnersalbany

Facebook Group

Join our Facebook community for discussions, event updates, and member connections.

Join Group

Saturday Meetup

Alias Coffee
76 N Pearl St, Albany, NY 12207
Every Saturday at 7:45 AM

Wednesday Meetup

Common Roots Albany Outpost
19 Quackenbush Square
Albany, NY 12207
Every Wednesday at 5:45 PM