The Al Lawrence Running Club, USA (ALRC) was established in 1987 by a group of interested runners who were being coached by Al Lawrence.  The club motto is “Non Laurus Luctatio”, which translates to “not the prize but the struggle.”  Our purpose is to foster competitive and recreational running among our club members and within our community.  We welcome anyone who enjoys the camaraderie of competition at any level.   

For over 40 years, Coach Al coached many Houston area runners ranging from elite to back-of-the-packers.  Observing and learning from Al for 30 years, Connie Lawrence has taken over the Coaching roll. The Club has a number of members who receive professional independent coaching from Connie, but that certainly is not a requirement for membership in the Al Lawrence Running Club.

Al competed for Australia in the 1956 and 1960 Olympic Games in the 5000 meters, 10,000 meters and the marathon, winning a bronze medal in the 10,000 meters in 1956. Please visit his website http://www.coachallawrence.com/Sportinghonors.htm

The ALRC is very active in the running community, organizing and volunteering at races as well as running in them.  We are also active members of HARRA (Houston Area Road Runners Association).  Club members are encouraged to join HARRA and compete on the ALRC teams in the HARRA road races and relays to earn points in the club competition as well as individual Runner of the Season standings. The ALRC  co-hosts the Bellaire Trolley Run 5k with the City of Bellaire Recreation Center.  The Trolley run has served as the HARRA 5K Championship since ALRC’s involvement began in 1996.  A portion of the funds raised by our club races is contributed each year to promote running among disadvantaged young people or youth that show an interest in the sport of running in the Greater Houston Area. In addition to social events, the club holds an annual Awards Banquet in the Summer and an annual Holiday Party in December.  Board meetings are monthly.    We are composed of over 70 members of all levels and distance preferences.