BOOGIE DOWN BRONX RUNNERS MAKE TRIUMPHANT RETURN TO HOOD TO COAST 2026
After years away, 12 Bronx Runners conquered the “Mother of All Relays” in Portland, Oregon.
PORTLAND, OR: After being absent from one of the most prestigious relays for several years, the Boogie Down Bronx Runners made a triumphant return this 2026 season.
Accompanied by an incredible group of 12 runners from the Boogie Down Bronx Runners community, the Bronx embarked on a journey to Portland, Oregon, to participate in the world-renowned “Mother of All Relays,” Hood To Coast. The annual event challenges teams of 12 runners to complete a grueling 200-mile relay over 36 hours. This year’s field featured an impressive nearly 20,000 runners and walkers across 8- to 12-member teams in 1,271 teams.
Lenny, the team captain and co-founder of Boogie Down Bronx Runners, expressed his excitement about the opportunity to showcase the Bronx community once again in an event the team had previously been unable to attend due to financial constraints and limited resources.
He shared immense joy in bringing the Bronx to Portland and being part of the global network of athletes who dedicate themselves to improving their lives throughout the year.
His partner and Boogie Down Bronx Runners coach, Tito, emphasized the significance of being in Portland and having their borough, THE BRONX, be part of major sports that contribute to health, wellness, and fitness.
“In fact, we are here representing the people of the great state of New York,” Tito added.
As Lenny and Tito describe it, running is “a powerful vehicle for promoting health, wellness, and fitness. This not only reduces stress but also fosters a strong community committed to these values. It is a powerful way to build community relationships and bridge the gap of isolation and loneliness that contribute to health issues.”
Before dawn, the team began their journey with Mt. Hood looming above them. Snow-capped peaks and chilly, crisp air filled the summit as first runner Katherine Vasquez took off. Katherine’s opening leg covered 6 miles down the valley, and the excitement was unforgettable, with chants of “Go Bronx!” echoing through the mountains.
The first set in running order after Katherine: Tito, Stephanie, Sandra, Gerard, and DJ Willy as anchor. The early legs, with their steep downhill declines, were considered challenging, but the energy was electric.
Leg two featured 15-year-old Gavin, who dominated his section within his age group averaging a 9-minute pace, followed by Lenny, Camille, Esther, Denise, and anchoring Lisa. “This wasn’t easy, but we are doing it,” Denise said.
Except for team captain Lenny, Coach Tito, and Sandra, the other Bronx participants had never competed at this level. But they all earned their spot through unwavering commitment and dedication to the BDBR community, role models dedicated to their health, wellness, and to becoming the best versions of themselves.
It was a well-oiled team effort. Each member made sure the next was ready, checking on each other through sleepless miles.
As they ran from sunrise to sunset and back to sunrise, they were blessed with star-filled skies and moonlit heavens, an extraordinary two-day running adventure.
After two full days of mental and physical endurance, the team waited on the sandy beach of Seaside, Oregon, for anchor Lisa to cross the finish line.
The race ended with even more excitement than it started. The team shared a late-night dinner on the beach, reminiscing about the challenges overcome. One thing was certain: it was all mental. With focus and commitment, you can achieve and overcome any obstacle.
During the meal, Tito summed up the shared sentiment: “I was looking for a hill and just stumbled upon an endless incline with no sleep. But we didn’t come to sleep.”
The team also received a tour of the Nike World Headquarters, which enriched their experience and provided valuable insight into the sport. The club would like to thank Nike for their support and making this possible. No other corporations have invested so much in helping BDBR and the community of the Bronx as Nike.
For Boogie Down Bronx Runners, Hood To Coast 2026 was more than a race. It was proof that the Bronx belongs on the world s
tage.
