Ian Gonzalez's Last Lap Cornerstore, a Black-owned running store in Bronzeville, is transitioning to a brick-and-mortar location in Hyde Park after a successful grassroots gathering. He aims to raise $200,000 to expand his services, promoting running among Black and brown communities in Chicago. Despite a nationwide surge in diverse running clubs, fewer than 5% of running companies are owned by people of color. Gonzalez's work symbolizes hope and inclusion, showing there's a supportive space for runners of color despite the industry's predominantly white landscape.
"It was the saddest joy I've ever felt," Gonzalez said. "For the community to come out and say they see me and show the love, that was beautiful."
"My main focus is to give new runners, especially Black and brown runners, the opportunity to try the sport out, to enjoy the sport, to find themselves in this sport," Gonzalez said.
"(The running) industry, which is predominantly white, can be extremely hard to break into," said Sandria Washington, the director of engagements and partnerships at Build Bronzeville. "I think what he's shown is that there's a community and there's a space for runners of color."
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