by Larry Eder
Jim Ryun Running Camp Celebrates 50 Years of Excellence in Running and Character Development Colorado Springs,
Colorado Springs,, CO/Tampa, FL – The Jim Ryun Running Camp, founded by legendary Olympian and world-record miler Jim Ryun and his wife, Anne, proudly celebrates 50 years of inspiring and training young runners to reach their fullest potential—physically, mentally, and spiritually. The Jim Ryun Running Camp is dedicated to developing young runners into disciplined athletes and leaders. By combining elite training with life lessons in perseverance and faith, the Camp provides an unforgettable experience that impacts runners long after they leave the track. Since its inception, the Camp has shaped thousands of athletes, instilling discipline, goal-setting, and perseverance by providing structured workouts, cross-training, and faith-based mentorship. With a carefully designed daily schedule, Campers receive expert coaching, engage in high-quality training, and gain valuable insights on nutrition, mental preparation, and personal growth. As a youth, he prayed that God would show up and make something of his life – preferably in sports. The Jim Ryun RunningCamps are a result of his one simple prayer. Jim Ryun, three-time U.S. Olympian and Olympic silver medalist, remains one of America’s greatest milers. In 2003, he was named ESPN’s most outstanding high school athlete, surpassing icons like Tiger Woods and LeBron James. His passion for mentoring the next generation of runners continues to define the Camp’s mission after 50 years.
In July 2020, Jim received what he considers to be thecrème de la crème of his life. President Trump presented Jim with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, saying, “Jim has helped teach thousands of young people to reach their fullest and best athletic potential. He has been a dedicated mentor to Campers and shared the critical importance of Christian faith.”“The Jim Ryun Running Camp was one of the great memorable adventures of my high school years,” says Jenny Simpson, 2011 Champion and 2016 Olympic bronze medalist in the 1500m. Other notable alums include two-time Olympian Ryan Hall and NCAA Champion Josh McDougal.Jim Ryun is onsite and lectures at Camp during the week. Campers enjoy one-on-one time with Jim Ryun, a commemorative T-shirt and photo, and an environment that fosters excellence on and off the track. Lifelong friendships are established, resulting in Campers returning year after year.
Additional lectures throughout the week are given by nationally acclaimed staff: Aaron Yoder, Head Coach for Track and CrossCountry at Bethany College & World Champ in backward running, and Trisha Kroll, certified mindset coach and guided performance visualization coach & Founder of Mind of a Champion. What Campers and Coaches say about Camp: “I attended Camp in 1976. I was drawn to Jim and Anne Ryun and wanted to know their secret to life. One night at Camp, I knocked on their dorm room door and said, “Whatever you have, I want.” They invited me in and shared their love of Jesus with me. Since I attended Camp, my life has not been the same. This Camp set my life on a trajectory that has impacted every aspect. I am so grateful to the Ryuns for providing the Christlike change I needed in my life!” -Terry Donahue“I love the community and love for God. I made nothing but friends and better relationships during Camp.
I needed to come here to increase my knowledge about God and running. God is with this Camp. Thank you.”- Male Camper“The tight community was what I liked most about Camp. The other Christian running camps I’ve been to had hundreds of people. Jim Ryun and everyone made me feel really connected. All the counselors were amazing. If I could, I would stay another week.”- Female Camper
For more details, upcoming Camp dates, and registration information, visit RyunRunning.com. For media interviews, contact Catharine Ryun at 858-518-3714
