Eugene, OR – Fast RunnerZ and Eugene Running Company have joined forces to better serve the running community of Eugene. Fast RunnerZ is providing coaches for Eugene Running Company’s Thursday Night Performance Group.

“The purpose of the partnership is to provide a link between the running community and the professional athletes that train here,” said Matt Scherer, owner of Fast RunnerZ. “It is a great way our coaches in Eugene can become more involved with the runners they see out on the trails every day.”

Spearheading the group is Heather Hanscom, a professional marathoner sponsored by Brooks. She has been the assistant cross county and track coach at Thomas Jefferson HS for Science and Tech as well as a coach for the Mile Ahead Training Program through Pacers Running Store. Her personal achievements include a personal best of 2:31:53 in the marathon, 2005 World Team Qualifier, 2004 Olympic Trials 6th place, and the 2003 Marine Corps Marathon Champion.

Fast RunnerZ also plans to have some of its other coaches join Hanscom from periodically to provide the group with a wide range of interaction. They will speak, offer advice on training, and socialize.

The group meets every Thursday at 6:00 pm at Hayward Field at the University of Oregon. Most of the workouts take place at Hayward Field but will occasionally take place in other areas of Eugene such as Hendricks Park, Amazon Park, and Pre’s Trails.

Eugene Running Company offers several additional running and walking groups for the purpose of motivation, fun, and camaraderie. The groups are free, open to the public, and take place almost every day of the week.