Rob Austin, also known as the Ramblewood Runner, isn’t afraid to embrace his exciting side and bring a bit of joy to others’ lives. For the past five years, he has shaken up his running routine by donning all sorts of fun costumes. It has now become a special part of his life that reminds us sometimes even the most simple things can add a lot of magic to our days. Many of the costumes are ones he’s designed himself, adding a personal and artistic touch.
What started as a silly joke for his friends on a Zoom call during the pandemic has turned into an event that has made many people smile. A lot of spectators around Mount Laurel have been graced with this unexpected but cheerful spectacle. Most people would never expect to see someone running like that, so it can take people by surprise in the best way possible.
Austin is a big believer in the importance of letting loose and allowing a fun side to be on full display. While he acknowledges that in certain parts of life, like at work, we need to be more professional, he also sees great value in not taking everything too seriously. He hopes that what he’s doing serves as a reminder to others that there’s beauty in being goofy and having a good, jolly time — that life should be full of fun memories, and it’s okay to smile and enjoy yourself. His running outside, all dressed up, serves as a reminder that life should be full of color and light. Happiness is such a key element, and we all could use some more of it.
Those who know Austin on a deeper level, such as his husband, Matthew Burian, recognize that this is just a representation of who he is. Loving to make people happy and laugh at home is part of his authentic self. Being able to shine that part of him for the community so more people can experience that joy has been such a special thing to witness.
We sat down with Austin and had a delightful conversation. His enthusiasm for this was truly infectious. We discussed several things surrounding this adorable idea he came up with — from the initial spark that made it all happen, to some of the most memorable moments so far in a journey he never could have imagined, to the future ideas he has as he continues to add a bit more sunshine to other people’s busy days.
What was the initial inspiration that made you want to go out and run in these zany and colorful costumes?
Rob Austin: It started during lockdown. We were doing a group happy hour Zoom call with some friends but I still had to do my run. I put on an Olivia Newton-John costume and showed my friends it on the video call just to be silly. Then people in my community noticed me and started posting about it on Facebook. People really seemed to enjoy it, especially at that time when we were all stuck in our homes and there was not much other entertainment. I then just kept doing it and trying new costumes and it really became something people love. I get so many smiles and it is a joy to see.
What have been some of the most memorable reactions of spectators who have seen you out?
RA: During Christmastime I have a Santa costume I use. That seems to ignite the biggest response. There will be people walking outside with their kids and then they will come running up to me, which is so sweet. It really seems to bring the most joy. So many people love Christmastime and the holidays so getting to see that extra happiness is great. Back in 2021 the township of Mount Laurel, where I live, issued a proclamation for me because of all the joy I was bringing to the community, so that was really special too.
Why is it so important especially for adults to just let go and do fun and silly stuff like this that brings more happiness to the world?
RA: I personally like to be silly and make people laugh. I feel like especially in today’s age with so much crazy stuff in the world, I do not want to take myself too seriously. It is good to just cut loose. Yes, during our jobs, we have to be serious because we want a paycheck, but other times it is so important to have fun. We should be able to be silly because I do feel there are a lot of people who take themselves too seriously, especially during free time.
Which has been your favorite costume to showcase to people so far?
RA: Truly, the original was iconic. It was the “Let’s Get Physical” song costume by Olivia Newton-John. It had a beautiful aqua colored top with hot pink leggings. I also added a blonde wig which just made it so fun. I actually have reused it as like an anniversary outfit. Every year I go back to my hometown of Pitman for their Fourth of July race and I find something festive to wear. This past year I made a homemade costume. I went to the store and got different colored tablecloths. I wrapped them on myself in all the colors to make like a big rainbow to fly off me.
How has doing this impacted your life in a positive way?
RA: Running is an outlet for me. It really was such a helpful thing, especially during the pandemic. I just keep at it to this day because it is so important. Honestly though, doing this was not about making my life better, it was about getting others to smile. It was never really about me.
Is there a character you have not done yet as a costume like another singer or actress that maybe you hope to do in the future?
RA: I have done Tina Turner before, which is another really good singer I have done. I also have done Britney Spears with her iconic schoolgirl outfit from the ‘90s. I try to think of somebody that would be instantly recognizable for the people passing by. One that comes to mind would be Madonna. Maybe I can go out there in her cone bra. That would be really fun.
What is the main thing you want people to take away from this adorable and creative idea you have come up with which brings so many smiles to people’s faces?
RA: Life is too serious but do not take it that seriously. Find time to be your genuine self and just have fun with it. I personally just love to run, I like to be silly, and I like to make people laugh and smile. So just put that together all in one event and that can add so much magic to life!
