Who We Are
Welcome to RunByFaith, a running and walking club based in Virginia Beach, Virginia. We are a group of recreational and competitive runners and walkers from throughout the Hampton Roads area. Our mission is to share the love of Jesus Christ to the community through fellowship, encouragement, and participation in area races and events.
Our running club currently meet most Saturdays of the month for organized long, group runs and walks. Our running routes in Virginia Beach include Princess Anne park, Virginia Beach boardwalk, Sandbridge, and Mount Trashmore.
Group running events in Virginia Beach are updated weekly on the website. Whether you are starting your first walking program or training to run another marathon, there is a place for you. All levels of runners and walkers are welcome. We are a nonprofit ministry, so no fees to join (except a little sweat).
Founder
Dana Johnston, the founder of RunByFaith, loves the Lord and the camaraderie of a group run. She came to know Jesus as her personal Savior at a young age, but in response to life struggles and personal choices, she walked away during her young adult life. God never gave up on her, and she gave her heart back to Him when she was twenty-three.
Prior to running, Dana was an avid equestrienne and competed with her alma mater at the national level. She started running recreationally in college and since then, has run several half marathons. She completed her first marathon in 2007, the Shamrock Marathon in Virginia Beach. During a training run, God planted the idea of a faith-based running group. He wanted more from Dana with her running as He had healed her from a foot injury that her doctor said would require surgery. Her running was to be for Him, not just her... it was time for a ministry.
Dana and her husband Neil have two children and are active in their church. Dana is a USATF Level I coach and certified personal trainer with Team Elite Strength & Conditioning and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice with Nimmo Wellness.