Boyle Heights Bridge Runners

In 2013, David Gómez and Elisa García asked a question that split the Los Angeles running scene: why did running clubs thrive only in wealthier neighborhoods? From their roots in Boyle Heights, East LA, they started the Boyle Heights Bridge Runners with one mission: create a space that belongs to their community. Every Wednesday night, runners gather at Mariachi Plaza and set out across the bridges that link their neighborhood to downtown, a route that has become iconic. What began as a small group has grown into a beacon for the city, drawing mechanics, teachers, artists, and activists into something deeper than miles. The crew stands for unity and inclusivity, proving that running can bridge not just geography but divides. Today, BHBR reminds LA that every neighborhood deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated on the streets.