Bryant Reyes hopes Reyes Run Club helps residents get healthier, one step at a time
When Bryant Reyes started Reyes Run Club earlier this year, he simply wanted to do something for the community. A former Lake Placid High School cross country runner, Reyes found his way back to running several years ago. What started as a personal journey soon became an opportunity to help others discover the physical and mental benefits of the sport.
Today, Reyes Run Club has grown to between 40 and 50 members and meets regularly at Devane Park in Lake Placid. “There is no fee to join,” Reyes said. “It’s for everybody.”
And he means everybody. Whether someone is training for a race, looking to improve their health or has never run a day in their life, Reyes said they are welcome. “For the person who has never run before, come on out,” he said. “I can help you.” The club includes runners of all ages and experience levels. Weeknight runs are generally easier-paced outings designed to accommodate a variety of abilities, while Saturday mornings feature longer runs for those building endurance. His wife, Rosa Guzman, also helps with all of the runs.
Reyes, who is studying to become a certified trainer, also shares knowledge about nutrition and fitness with members. His goal isn’t simply to create faster runners. It’s to create healthier people. To the best of anyone’s knowledge, Lake Placid has never had an organized running club before. Reyes believes the response he’s seen shows there was a need for one. In just a few months, dozens of local residents have become regular participants, finding encouragement, accountability and friendship through the group.
Looking ahead, Reyes hopes Reyes Run Club can become even more involved in the community. One goal is supporting the Lake Placid High School cross country program. “There is talent in this area,” Reyes said. He has also been discussing the possibility of bringing additional 5K races to Lake Placid through conversations with a HiCo. Race Timing. Ideas being considered include themed community events such as a Cinco de Mayo race featuring tacos after the finish and a Halloween costume fun run. The club is currently working to grow its Facebook following, which Reyes hopes can eventually be monetized to help generate funds for future activities and events.
But even as the club grows, Reyes says the mission remains simple: It’s about giving back. It’s about encouraging people to take that first step. And it’s about helping make Lake Placid a healthier community.
For anyone considering joining, Reyes’ message is straightforward: “Come on out.”
To follow the Reyes Run Club on Facebook, click here: Reyes Run Club Facebook
