There are several organized running groups, some you can find on a google search and I believe there is a Hash House group here.
Dogs are OK, in 12 years with mine, it has been OK so long as you respect the fact that many people here for religious, cultural, or (as in the West) just don't like dogs, you give them a wide berth and you have control of your dog. In warmer months, you'll want to go out before sunrise or after sunset for the longer walks anyways to save both you and your companion unnecessary distress and you're less likely to run into people who don't appreciate puppy as much as you do.
Oh, and please pick up after pooch, that's one way to at least mitigate the fact you have a dog - there are too many here who figure they don't have to do that because not many people will notice. They do, and they complain and it means more restrictions and bans on where you can walk puppy.
There are various "empty" spaces where you might run/walk with your dog where you wouldn't impinge on those who don't share your likes. Aspire Park is not one of them.
Also, be aware that occasionally there are sickos that put out poisoned food and you need to be able to control access and your dog to such situations. I've never come across it myself but it can and does happen and being able to call your dog off an enticing KFC piece of garbage is good training.
The Radisson Blu or Champions? at the Marriott probably carry the games you speak of - I am unfamiliar with the games myself.
As for meeting people, if you're into rugby, the Rubgy Club is the place to go. If you have other interests I'm sure there are some amateur football clubs etc. Ask around when you arrive, I'm sure like minded people will be able to steer you in the right direction.
There are several organized running groups, some you can find on a google search and I believe there is a Hash House group here.
Dogs are OK, in 12 years with mine, it has been OK so long as you respect the fact that many people here for religious, cultural, or (as in the West) just don't like dogs, you give them a wide berth and you have control of your dog. In warmer months, you'll want to go out before sunrise or after sunset for the longer walks anyways to save both you and your companion unnecessary distress and you're less likely to run into people who don't appreciate puppy as much as you do.
Oh, and please pick up after pooch, that's one way to at least mitigate the fact you have a dog - there are too many here who figure they don't have to do that because not many people will notice. They do, and they complain and it means more restrictions and bans on where you can walk puppy.
There are various "empty" spaces where you might run/walk with your dog where you wouldn't impinge on those who don't share your likes. Aspire Park is not one of them.
Also, be aware that occasionally there are sickos that put out poisoned food and you need to be able to control access and your dog to such situations. I've never come across it myself but it can and does happen and being able to call your dog off an enticing KFC piece of garbage is good training.
The Radisson Blu or Champions? at the Marriott probably carry the games you speak of - I am unfamiliar with the games myself.
As for meeting people, if you're into rugby, the Rubgy Club is the place to go. If you have other interests I'm sure there are some amateur football clubs etc. Ask around when you arrive, I'm sure like minded people will be able to steer you in the right direction.