Philadelphia’s vibrant running community owes much of its energy and passion to figures like Ross Martinson. A name synonymous with running in the City of Brotherly Love, Ross isn’t just a runner; he’s a builder, a mentor, and a cornerstone of the local athletic landscape. As one of the owners of Philadelphia Runner, a beloved specialty store, and a key figure in prominent running organizations, Ross’s impact on Philadelphia is undeniable. But who is Ross In Philadelphia, and how did he become such an integral part of this thriving scene?
Ross’s journey into running began humbly enough, as a freshman at Haverford High School in Pennsylvania. Recalling his early days, Ross shares, “The first practice all of the girls dropped me on a 3-mile run, and I have no idea why I went back.” This initial struggle, however, sparked a lasting passion. He discovered a love for racing and the rewarding process of self-improvement that defines the sport. This Haverford beginning laid the foundation for a career deeply intertwined with running.
From those challenging high school runs, Ross experienced a period of consistent growth over the next decade and a half. While acknowledging he wasn’t a standout recruit, his dedication led him to the Saint Joseph’s University team as a walk-on. The early college days were tough, struggling to keep pace with teammates. However, Ross persevered, and eventually, training became more enjoyable and fruitful. A pivotal moment arrived when he started working at Bryn Mawr Running Co. during his junior year. Surrounded by professional and highly dedicated runners, his understanding and commitment to the sport deepened. This experience in the Philadelphia running retail environment was formative for his future endeavors.
After college, and a period of moving around, Ross returned to Bryn Mawr Running Co., finding himself in an inspiring training environment with faster runners. This period saw him achieve a breakthrough at the Boston Mayor’s Cup, where he placed 6th. He followed this with strong performances in Broad Street Runs and half marathons. While narrowly missing the Olympic Trials Qualifying time for the marathon (coming closest with a 2:23 in a windy Boston), his competitive spirit and drive were evident. During his time running for Bryn Mawr, he connected with the Philly Track Club for long runs, a group that became his training base when he later joined Philadelphia Runner.
Ross’s involvement extends beyond personal running achievements. While not a founding member, he became an integral part of the Philadelphia Runner Track Club (PRTC), an organization with roots tracing back to the Surekill Track Club. Founded by Brian Gallagher, Bill Frawley, and Matt Byrne, PRTC quickly gained prominence in the running community. Ross credits the club’s early success to the dedication of its members, particularly their demanding Sunday long runs. His memories of training with PRTC are filled with camaraderie and post-race celebrations, highlighting the strong social bonds within the Philadelphia running scene. The “Battle Royale” races, in particular, stand out as favorite memories, embodying the competitive yet fun spirit of the club.
Today, Ross’s focus has shifted towards nurturing the Philadelphia running community. He expresses his enthusiasm for the growth of PRTC as a hub for runners seeking group training, emphasizing the importance of collective training for improvement. He acknowledges the role of social media and dedicated individuals in sustaining the team’s growth, a far cry from the message boards of the past.
The evolution of Philadelphia Runner under Ross’s ownership is a testament to his vision and adaptability. He reflects on the significant changes in the running landscape since the store’s inception, noting the increased interconnectedness between elite, casual, and new runners. Ross appreciates this inclusive environment and envisions Philadelphia Runner continuing to support this growth, encouraging more Philadelphians to embrace running. He also hopes to see more competitive runners find their way to the track club, further strengthening the local racing scene. Philadelphia Runner, under his guidance, has become more than just a store; it’s a community center for runners of all levels in Philadelphia.
Beyond Philadelphia Runner, Ross dedicates his time to Team Philly Race Training, finding inspiration in helping individuals of all abilities discover the joy and discipline of running. He believes in the profound impact of running and exercise on overall well-being and is gratified to guide others on their fitness journeys. His involvement with the Philadelphia Marathon and Broad Street Run as elite coordinator further cements his role as a central figure in the city’s major running events.
While deeply immersed in the world of running, Ross also enjoys reading in his downtime, although he humorously admits his book collection is outpacing his reading speed. Despite a past attempt at learning guitar not panning out, his commitment to running and community building showcases a different kind of talent – the ability to inspire and connect people through the power of sport. Ross Martinson, a fixture in Philadelphia, continues to propel the city’s running culture forward, making him a true champion for runners in Philadelphia and beyond.
