Check out how middle-distance runner Riley Bahr is sprinting towards meaningful change for her sport and the ocean in this exclusive interview.
Q: What first drew you to running, and how has your connection with nature shaped your journey as an athlete?
A: Running in nature has always been a source of empowerment for me. It all began when I joined a group called Girls on the Run for 3rd–5th graders. The program focused on building self-esteem and confidence while training for a 5K, which gave me a positive association with running from a young age. As I got older and entered high school, running became a way for me to connect with myself, spend time in nature or spend time with other runners.
The sense of empowerment that comes from running in nature has profoundly shaped my journey as an athlete. Running outdoors became a daily routine that fueled my mental clarity and athletic goals. That is one of the reasons I chose to attend Florida State University for cross country and track—the abundance of beautiful nature trails in Tallahassee made it an ideal environment for training. I’ve always preferred trails over pavement, and the routine of running outdoors every morning kept me grounded and motivated.
Q: Can you share a moment during a run—on a trail, at a beach or in a natural setting—when you felt deeply connected to the environment?
A: Running has always allowed me to explore new places and enjoy unique scenery. Every time I travel, I use running to connect with the environment, whether by an ocean, on a trail or along a beach. One specific moment that stands out was during the Ragnar Relay in Seattle. At 3:00 AM, I found myself running through the pitch-dark trails of Mount Rainier, wholly immersed in the sounds and sights of nature. I didn’t see another runner for hours—it was just me and the wilderness. That experience left me feeling deeply connected and grateful for the opportunities running has given me to appreciate and protect the natural world.
Q: How has running outdoors influenced your perspective on protecting the environment, particularly our ocean?
A: Running outdoors has made me more observant of environmental issues. Over the years, I’ve seen litter on trails, beaches and roads, which has been both upsetting and motivating. Witnessing these issues during my runs has instilled in me a sense of responsibility toward the environment.
Running along coastal trails often makes me wonder if these paths will exist for future generations of runners or if rising sea levels will erase them. This awareness fuels my passion for protecting our environment. The urgency of the environmental crisis is a constant reminder that we need to act now to preserve the natural spaces we love.
Q: What parallels do you see between the endurance required for running and the perseverance needed for environmental conservation efforts?
A: The most significant parallel is the care and commitment required for both. An endurance athlete understands that every aspect of their life—nutrition, hydration, sleep and consistency—affects their performance, sometimes months or even years before a goal event. Similarly, environmental conservation requires long-term dedication, where small daily actions compound into meaningful change. Just as endurance training is about the long game, protecting the environment requires us to think beyond the immediate future and act consistently for lasting impact.
Q: What lessons from the ocean—its tides, calmness or power—do you apply to your sport or daily life?
A: The ocean has taught me the importance of both power and patience. It’s such a powerful place, and people are naturally drawn to it. Learning from that power reminds me that we, too, have infinite power in our actions and intentions, but we need patience to see when and where we reap the benefits.
In my sport, this lesson reminds me to trust I have more power than I think, even when I feel like I’ve reached my limits. Similarly, in daily life, I hope to inspire others to recognize their power—to push themselves in sport, connect with nature and take steps toward living more sustainably, one habit at a time.
Q: How do you hope future generations of runners will experience the world—cleaner air, thriving coastlines or protected trails?
A: I hope future generations of runners can explore the world freely without being hindered by extreme temperatures, air pollution or disappearing trails. Clean air, thriving coastlines and protected natural spaces should be accessible to everyone, and I hope all runners understand their role in preserving these things. Through education, community efforts and advocacy, we can work together to protect these resources for future generations. Beyond runners, I hope all athletes recognize the power of their platforms to drive meaningful change. Just as trailblazers like Muhammad Ali used their influence to challenge societal norms and fight for justice, environmental values are the next frontier for reshaping our societal actions. Athletes have the unique ability to inspire global movements, and now is the time to take charge of protecting our planet.
Q: Looking back on your journey as a runner, what lessons has the environment taught you that you carry into the future?
A: Running outdoors has been a constant reminder of how interconnected we are with the natural world and how important it is to protect it. And to have patience; it takes time and education to make societal shifts. Most of all, I am grateful for the environment, which gives me the best places to explore, find friends and see new places.
Q: Do you have any personal thoughts about why you’re excited to be part of the Protect Where We Play movement?
A: I’m excited to be part of Protect Where We Play because it aligns with my values as an athlete and an advocate for the environment. Running has given me so much, and this movement allows me to give back by helping protect the spaces where we run, play and connect with nature. I appreciate that there are platforms for athletes like everyone involved to use their voices.
Riley’s lacing up for Team Ocean and turning her passion into action, so we can keep on playing for generations to come. Are you ready to join her? It’s time to #ProtectWhereWePlay!
