Boogie Down Bronx Runners Is About Community, Pride, and the Joy of Running

Lenny Grullon (pictured on the right in the back) with his run crew Boogie Down Bronx Runners.

For this edition of Member Connection, we spoke with Lenny Grullon, co-founder of Boogie Down Bronx Runners, a collective of everyday Bronx residents whose mission is to promote wellness, inspire, and engage people of all abilities. Lenny discusses the run crew’s passion for providing inclusive practices, community engagement, and personal inspiration in order to foster a strong, supportive environment that continues to thrive. Learn more about how the Boogie Down Bronx has transformed the lives of local runners.

1. As co-founder of Boogie Down Bronx Runners, how have you fostered a strong sense of community with your fellow members?

In 2017, recognizing the lack of running groups in the Bronx, me and my best friend Jean Paul initiated Boogie Down Bronx Runners. Despite initial challenges—like the first run attracting no participants—we remained committed. I used grassroots strategies such as distributing flyers and leveraging social media to attract members, emphasizing consistency and determination in building the group's foundation. My vision was to establish a running group that welcomed individuals of all backgrounds and fitness levels. By focusing on camaraderie and mutual support, we ensured that members felt valued and included, regardless of their running experience or knowledge of the sport. This approach transformed the group into more than just a running crew—it became a supportive community.

Understanding the importance of community engagement, we've collaborated with local organizations like the MMCC Pelham Cornerstone Community Center. We've partnered with companies like Nike, Maurten, and Gatorade to be able to bring access to our diverse community of runners. These partnerships provided members with resources such as safe spaces to gather and store belongings during runs. Additionally, our community has organized events like coat drives and charity runs, reinforcing the group's commitment to giving back to the community. Through persistent effort, inclusive practices, community engagement, and personal inspiration, we've fostered a strong, supportive environment that continues to thrive.

2. Global Running Day is about getting out into your community and running together. To you, what is the best part about running with Boogie Down Bronx and in your communities in the Bronx?

Global Running Day means a lot to me being a person that leads a running crew from the Bronx. My passion truly lies in creating an inclusive space where individuals of all backgrounds feel welcomed and supported through running. On special days like Global Running Day, I get to witness all the positive impact of community-driven fitness, where shared experiences lead to lasting connections and a healthier, more united Bronx. So, on Global Running Day we connect with our communities in a healthy way and show others what the Bronx is all about—community.

3. What are some of the unexpected joys you’ve experienced in leading a run club?

A lot of these joys lie in the profound impact of community engagement—seeing lives change, perceptions shift, and a stronger, healthier community emerge through the simple act of running together. The group's growth to a vibrant community of runners has been astonishing. Especially seeing members who were once hesitant about running become enthusiastic participants, achieving personal milestones they never thought possible. This transformation extends beyond physical health; it's about building confidence, fostering connections, and creating a sense of belonging. This was all unexpected for me, I just wanted to convince a few people to run with me.

4. What kind of community can new members expect when they join Boogie Down Bronx, and what kind of traditions, rituals, or activities are part of the run club?

When new members join Boogie Down Bronx Runners, they become part of a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive community that extends beyond running. We emphasize camaraderie, mutual encouragement, and community engagement, making it a welcoming space for runners of all levels. The focus is on building friendships and supporting each other's wellness journeys, rather than competition. We host 3-mile runs and 2-mile walk/runs every Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday at 7:30 a.m., starting from the Pelham Cornerstone Community Center. These runs are open to all and are designed to be accessible and enjoyable. We also strive to create a safe and empowering environment for female runners. This includes organizing women-only events and ensuring that all members feel comfortable and supported.

5. What inspired you to get involved with NYRR as a member?

I was inspired to become a member of New York Road Runners to further my mission of promoting health and inclusivity within my community. By joining NYRR, I aimed to connect Boogie Down Bronx Runners with a broader running community, providing members with greater access to races, resources, and opportunities for growth. This affiliation not only elevated the visibility of my running club but also allowed for greater participation in events like the New Balance Bronx 10 Mile, fostering a sense of pride and representation for Bronx runners.

6. What NYRR race is Boogie Down Bronx Runners’ favorite and why?

Our favorite race without a doubt is the New Balance Bronx 10 Mile. This race holds a special place in our hearts for several reasons, especially since we're from the Bronx! We get to race the streets that our crew runs on every week. This deep connection to the course enhances the race's significance for us, making it more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of our community and our personal journeys. The New Balance Bronx 10 Mile encapsulates what the Boogie Down Bronx Runners stand for: community, pride, and the joy of running in the place we call home.

Boogie Down Bronx Runners at NYRR Club Night.