There are running clubs all over Minnesota and Wisconsin, and the Lake Effect Athletics Club is a local one.

Lake Effect started in 2021 and competes on the USA Track & Field Minnesota Club Circuit. Founder Tom Sederquist says local runners have been doing well, keeping up with Twin Cities clubs like Mill City Running.

“So as with most great ideas, it was actually just on a long run with friends,” Sederquist said.

Club runners have won races like the Whistlestop Half Marathon, the Fargo Half Marathon, and shorter ones like the Fitger’s 5k and the Gobble Gallop.

The USATF circuit includes eight races ranging from one mile to Grandma’s Marathon. The top three fastest runners’ times are averaged to amount to a ranking.

“Running, it can be a lonely sport if you’re trying to pursue your goals alone,” Sederquist said. “So the camaraderie of the team – we have a lot of fun being competitive.”

Anyone can be a part of it. You don’t have to be an elite athlete. The Lake Effect Athletics Club hopes to add a full women’s team before the end of the year.