Randy Rodriguez Open Run

TIME TO READ3 mins

BYNYRR Staff

DATEOctober 2, 2025

Native New Yorker and Bronx resident Randy Rodriguez manages the VOICES Medicaid Education Program at Hospital for Special Surgery. Randy has run 18 New York Road Runners races, including the New Balance Bronx 10 Mile five times and the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon.

Randy shared his running journey, including the key role played by NYRR Open Run at St. Mary’s Park and the inspiration he draws from his Hispanic/Latinx heritage and culture.

How did you get started with Open Run and how is your running journey going?

I started running across the street from Yankee Stadium at the track in Macombs Dam Park—just running in circles without really knowing much about the sport. When I found Open Run at St. Mary’s Park, I was looking for a way to stay active and, most importantly, run with a group, because I prefer not to run alone.

I was immediately drawn in by the welcoming atmosphere and met some great people, including Rolando Baez, who is an active member of the St. Mary’s Park Open Run. What started as something simple grew into a journey to complete the 9+1 program and ultimately run the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon, a milestone moment in my journey.

Open Run helped me set running goals and reach them, and today my focus is on consistency, balance, and pushing myself. Every run is another step forward.

What does Open Run mean to you?

Open Run is more than just a place to run, it’s a community where everyone is welcome, no matter what their pace or background. For me, it represents encouragement, inclusivity, and the joy of movement. I appreciate the sense of community that Open Run and NYRR events bring year-round.

Do you participate in New York Road Runners races?

I’ve run several NYRR races. The New Balance Bronx 10 Mile is my favorite and the one I circle on my calendar every year. It’s especially meaningful to me because it doesn’t just pass through my neighborhood, it feels like a celebration of Hispanic culture, with the music, the people, and the energy along the Grand Concourse.

In 2022, the race took on even greater significance when my father passed away the night before. I chose to run in his honor, and that experience allowed me to relive memories of walking those same streets with him while honoring both my roots and his memory.

What does your Hispanic/Latinx heritage means to you as a runner?

My heritage is a source of strength and pride. I was born in New York City to Puerto Rican and Ecuadorian parents, and as a runner, I carry with me the resilience, energy, and community spirit that define our culture.

Can you share a bit about what you do at Hospital for Special Surgery?

At HSS, I work in the Social Work Program department, where I manage the VOICES Medicaid Education Program. The program focuses on helping patients with Medicaid navigate their insurance, improve access to care, and advance health equity.

Partnering with NYRR Open Run has been a natural fit, since we’re both present in the same neighborhoods. At these events, I share information on how to access world class musculoskeletal care at HSS so runners, their families, and neighbors know where to turn to move and feel better.

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