If you've signed up for the Devil Mountain Run, you're already part of a 46-year Danville tradition. The 2026 race runs on May 3rd through downtown Danville — Railroad Ave, Danville Blvd, and the Iron Horse Trail — with brand-new USATF-certified 5K and 10K courses, finisher medals for everyone, and a new beneficiary: the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area. It's a fast, flat, community race and one of the best mornings in the Tri-Valley calendar.
Running Fit Lab will be hosting group training runs on April 11 and April 18 — two Saturday mornings before race day. We meet at the Danville Train Station, split into two groups by pace, and cover 4–6 miles on local routes so you arrive on May 3rd knowing exactly what to expect.
"A fast, flat course rewards runners who know their pace. These runs are about dialing in your effort so race day feels controlled from the first step."
Two Start Times — Pick Yours
Not sure which group to join? If you can hold a conversation while running and you're comfortable covering 4–6 miles, the 8am group is a great fit. If you're training for a time goal and want more of a workout, join us at 7am.
Why These Runs Matter
The Devil Mountain Run is a flat, fast course — which means the runners who perform best are the ones who've practiced pacing, not just logged miles. Going out too hard in the first mile on a flat course is one of the most common race-day mistakes. These training runs are about teaching your body and mind what the right effort feels like so you can execute on May 3rd.
- Pacing practice — A flat course punishes going out too fast. We'll practice controlled, sustainable effort from the start so you finish strong.
- Course familiarity — We'll run sections of the actual course through downtown Danville and along the Iron Horse Trail so race day feels familiar.
- Cadence and efficiency — On a flat course, running economy matters more than on hills. Coach Francisco will work on your form and stride efficiency.
- Community — Race day is better when you know the people around you. These runs are a chance to connect with fellow Devil Mountain runners.
- Coach feedback — Francisco will be there to answer questions, watch your form, and give advice specific to your goal time and fitness.
What to Bring
These are training runs, not races — keep it simple. Wear what you'd normally run in, bring water if you like (4–6 miles and most runners are fine without), and wear your regular road running shoes. Most importantly, arrive 5–10 minutes before your start time so we can get going together. There's parking near the Danville Train Station and it's easy to find.
RFL at the Race — May 3rd
Running Fit Lab will have a booth at the Devil Mountain Run on May 3rd. The vendor expo opens at 6:30am on Railroad Ave — come say hello before your race, and find us again after to celebrate. Several RFL members will be running the 5K, 10K, and Mile of Truth, so look for us out on the course.
Not yet registered? The 2026 race features brand-new 5K and 10K courses, finisher medals for all, and supports the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area. Register at Race Roster or visit devilmtnrun.com for full race details.
Train with Us Beyond Race Day
The Devil Mountain Run is a great goal — but it's also a great starting point. Whether you're looking for ongoing group classes, private coaching, or a custom plan for your next race, Running Fit Lab coaches runners at every level right here in the Danville and Tri-Valley area. Check out our Danville coaching page to learn more about how we train local runners.
Questions About the Training Runs?
Email Coach Francisco directly — he'll answer any questions about the runs, pacing, or what to expect.