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Self-defense taught to runners following trail attacks

The Wabash Heartland Innovation Network is helping to fund initial planning for a new hiking trail in north central Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – In response to reported attacks on the Monon Trail in Indianapolis, an area running store has invited trail users to a self-defense workshop designed for runners and walkers.

The Athletic Annex was hosting two RunSafer clinics created by two-time Olympic distance runner, Todd Williams.

After retiring from the sport, Williams said he combined his passions for running and Brazilian Jiu Jiutsu to travel the country teaching self-defense techniques and safety tips for those exercising alone.

Williams said the workshop is not to make people feel paranoid, but prepared.

“I never want any runner, jogger or walker to think ‘Every time I put my running shoes on, I’m going to be attacked.’ What I do is give them something that they’ve never had before to be prepared. Does it happen a lot? It doesn’t happen a lot. But when it does happen, it’s scary,” Williams said.

Athletic Annex scheduled RunSafer clinics for Wednesday at its Broad Ripple location and Thursday evening at the store at 1411 West 86th Street from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.