Rediscovering the Joy of Running: Maria Solis Belizaire’s Journey
Maria Solis Belizaire, a passionate runner from a young age, remembers the thrill of competition as she raced around the gym during physical education classes. “I had to be first place,” she recalls, reminiscing about the time spent racing with her father at the local track. However, her love for running faded during her high school years, only to be reignited in 2013 when she was 35 years old and living in New York City.
Finding a Community in Running
Upon returning to running, Solis found herself in search of a supportive community. Training for her first marathon using a couch-to-5K program, she attended various runs organized by local stores. However, the experience wasn’t always welcoming. Solis recounts instances where she felt abandoned due to the lack of pace groups, and even got lost on a 10-mile run in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Despite these hurdles, she recognized the potential of running clubs for building community and meeting new friends.
Creating an Inclusive Space for Runners
Realizing that existing run clubs didn’t reflect her background, Solis decided to create her own. Along with friends, she founded Latinos Run and Latinas Run in 2016, which now includes several clubs across the United States. These organizations provide a much-needed inclusive environment for participants of all backgrounds, similar to the numerous other clubs that focus on BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities that have emerged across the country. Despite this progress, there remains significant work to be done to ensure running communities are diverse and welcoming.
Addressing Systemic Barriers in Running
According to Martinus Evans, founder of the Slow AF Run Club, resources for people of color who wish to take up running are often minimal. He recalls his journey beginning in 2012, when his health prompted him to seek guidance from running coaches who refused to work with him based on his weight. Facing systemic barriers, he decided to educate himself and became a certified run coach, motivated by a desire to run rather than a passion for coaching. Such experiences highlight the institutional obstacles that individuals of color often confront in pursuing sports.
The Impact of Representation and Safety in Running
Barriers to running can start early in life, often shaped by societal perceptions and opportunities offered in schools. Evans notes that many children of color, especially Black children, are funneled into track programs rather than cross country, where they could develop long-distance running skills. In adult life, various factors such as a lack of safe running spaces and public safety concerns—particularly regarding racially motivated violence—further deter individuals from minority communities from pursuing running. The tragic case of Ahmaud Arbery, a Black man murdered while jogging, sheds light on the very real fears that many people of color face when considering outdoor activities.
Fostering Community and Support in Running
Despite such challenges, initiatives like Latinas Run and Slow AF Run Club are successfully cultivating spaces where runners of color can feel seen and supported. Kiera Smalls, executive director of The Running Industry Diversity Coalition, emphasizes the importance of creating clubs that reflect the diverse demographics of their communities. Through thoughtful planning, including flexible meeting times and accommodating diverse running paces, these organizations are leading the charge toward inclusivity in the sport. Moreover, grassroots efforts to improve local running environments—such as initiatives for better street lighting and neighborhood safety—are making a noticeable difference.
How to Find an Inclusive Run Club
If you’re interested in joining an inclusive running community, the Running Industry Diversity Coalition offers a regularly updated list of BIPOC-led clubs suited to various locations. Participating in groups like Black Girls RUN!, Native Women Running, or local organizations such as Peace Runners 773 can be valuable resources for anyone seeking a nurturing running environment. Additionally, social media platforms can be a useful tool for discovering local running groups, especially in areas where clubs may not be easily accessible.
Building a Future of Diversity in Running
As more individuals join these inclusive clubs, they are not just creating a safer environment but also enriching the running culture as a whole. By fostering diverse participation and addressing the systemic challenges prevalent in the sport, organizations can create a more equitable future for running. Maria Solis Belizaire and her peers are paving the way for positive change, reminding us all that running is about community, connection, and embracing who we are rather than how we look. Ultimately, achieving a truly inclusive running culture requires collective commitment and action.
