Ocala Distance Project
Building Champions, Building Community
About Ocala Distance Project
The Ocala Distance Project (ODP) is a youth running club dedicated to developing young distance runners in Marion County. Under the leadership of Coach Darrin DeTorres, ODP provides structured training programs for athletes from elementary school through high school, with a focus on excellence, community, and innovation. Our holistic approach to training encompasses physical conditioning, mental preparation, nutrition guidance, and recovery strategies to develop well-rounded athletes.
Age Groups
Contact Information
Location
Ocala, Florida
Schedule
See program schedules for specific training times
Training Programs
Young Ones
Elementary (K-5)
Introduction to distance running for our youngest athletes. Focus on fun, fundamental movement skills, and developing a love for running through age-appropriate training and games.
Schedule: Varies by season
- Age-appropriate training methods
- Focus on fun and fundamentals
- Team building activities
- Introduction to competition
Regular Season
Middle School & High School
Comprehensive training program for developing distance runners. Athletes receive twice-weekly coaching sessions, team apparel including AAU membership, t-shirt, and singlet. Build aerobic base, learn racing strategies, and compete in local and regional events.
Schedule: Twice weekly coaching sessions
- Structured periodized training
- AAU membership included
- Team apparel provided
- Competition preparation
Elite
High School & Advanced
Advanced training program for serious competitive athletes looking to reach the next level. Includes everything from Regular Season plus gait analysis at a local running store, customized training for rest days, fitness tracker integration with Garmin Connect or Strava, and bi-monthly training adjustments.
Schedule: Customized individual schedules
- Gait analysis included
- Customized rest day training
- Fitness tracker integration
- Bi-monthly plan adjustments
Coaching Staff
Darrin DeTorres
Head Coach
Coach Darrin DeTorres brings extensive experience in developing youth distance runners. As the former Head Cross Country and Track Coach at Trinity Catholic High School and former Assistant Coach at Vanguard High School, he has a proven track record of building successful programs and developing state-level competitors. His coaching philosophy emphasizes long-term athletic development, combining proven training methodologies with modern innovations.
- Former Head Coach - Trinity Catholic High School
- Former Assistant Coach - Vanguard High School
- Developed state champions and nationally competitive athletes
Achievements
Elementary Girls State Champions
ODP Elementary Girls Team captured the Florida State Championship, showcasing the depth and development of our youth program.
Florida Middle School 800m State Champion
Jacob Rogers
Jacob Rogers won the Florida Middle School 800m State Championship, demonstrating elite-level development in our program.
Our Training Philosophy
At Ocala Distance Project, we believe in developing the complete athlete. Our approach combines proven training methodologies with a supportive team environment that emphasizes long-term athletic development over short-term results.
Excellence - We strive for personal bests and continuous improvement
Community - We build lasting friendships and support systems through running
Innovation - We embrace modern training methods while respecting proven principles
Character - We develop athletes who are leaders on and off the track
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Join Ocala Distance Project?
Take the first step toward achieving your running goals. Join our community of dedicated runners today.