Latin Running Club Buen Paso Launched in Richmond
Founders Jennifer Gomez and Mani Villarreal established the local group to provide a dedicated space for Latino runners.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Running
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The Buen Paso run club officially launched in Richmond during the spring of 2026. The group was established to offer a dedicated community space for Latino runners in the area.
Why it matters
The club provides a specific hub for Latino athletes to connect and participate in group runs together. Founders Jennifer Gomez and Mani Villarreal established the organization to fill this niche role within the local running scene.
The club currently offers two-mile and three-mile course options for members. Twenty runners attended the group's inaugural event.
The players
Jennifer Gomez
She is a co-founder of the Buen Paso run club who spearheaded the organization of the group.
Mani Villarreal
He is a co-founder of the Buen Paso run club who worked alongside Jennifer Gomez to establish the organization.
Rosio Garcia
She is a co-owner of Little Mexico who provided the location for the running club to meet.
The details
Founded by Jennifer Gomez and Mani Villarreal following planning that began in winter 2025, the group operates out of the Little Mexico restaurant located at 1328 W. Cary St. The club was formed after Gomez coordinated with restaurant co-owner Rosio Garcia to secure the site as a regular meeting point.
Timeline
Winter 2025: Planning for the club began.
Spring 2026: The Buen Paso run club was officially launched.
Every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.: Scheduled meeting time for the club.
Every Sunday at 8:30 a.m.: Scheduled meeting time for the club.
Season Trajectory
The creation of Buen Paso mirrors the growing national trend of niche, community-based social running organizations that prioritize shared heritage and local connection. This club shifts the Richmond running scene by establishing a permanent, culturally focused home base that could influence future group activity in the city.
Interested participants can join the group for two-mile or three-mile run sessions starting from 1328 W. Cary St. Sessions are held consistently on Tuesday evenings and Sunday mornings.
The takeaway
Buen Paso illustrates how local partnerships between entrepreneurs and athletes can anchor new community programs. Aspiring runners in the area can utilize the club as a recurring point of entry for consistent social exercise.
Further reading
For more information on the regional fitness scene, visit Running.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 8News.
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