In Bronzeville, a vibrant scene unfolded, with dozens clad in athletic wear gathering around a bright blue shipping container. This marked a pivotal moment for Ian Gonzalez and his business, Last Lap Cornerstore. After three years of dedicated efforts, Gonzalez decided it was time to move beyond the portable setup and seek a permanent space in Hyde Park.

A Mission to Expand Running Opportunities

Gonzalez’s vision extends beyond running a store; he aims to raise $200,000 to establish a brick-and-mortar shop in Hyde Park. His primary focus is to provide new runners, particularly those from Black and brown communities, the chance to experience and enjoy the sport. Last Lap aspires to contribute to the development of a thriving running culture on the South Side.

Chicago’s Running Renaissance Amidst Diversity Challenges

Since the onset of the pandemic, Chicago has witnessed a surge in diverse running clubs. However, a stark statistic highlights the challenge: less than 5% of running companies nationwide are owned by people of color, according to the Running Industry Diversity Coalition. Last Lap stands out as possibly the only Black-owned running store on the South Side, emphasizing the need for more inclusive spaces.

Boxville: Fostering Minority Entrepreneurship

Situated in Bronzeville, Boxville, a collection of small businesses within shipping containers, seeks to uplift minority entrepreneurs. This initiative, led by Build Bronzeville, addresses the hurdles faced by individuals who might lack clear paths to business ownership. Last Lap, under Gonzalez’s leadership, embodies the spirit of Boxville, emphasizing community and representation.

From Struggle to Inclusion: Last Lap’s Genesis

Founded in 2021, Last Lap had humble beginnings. Gonzalez invested his savings, approximately $8,000, sourced mainly from stimulus and unemployment checks. Despite financial challenges, his perseverance paid off in creating an inclusive running community on the South Side, breaking the barriers that often hindered runners in the area.

A Runner’s Transformation: Ian Gonzalez’s Journey

Ian Gonzalez’s journey into entrepreneurship and running was unexpected. Initially working odd jobs, he found himself immersed in the running community while employed at a Nike store in Bucktown. Witnessing co-workers participating in marathons ignited his own passion for running. The transformative experience led him to establish Last Lap and become a driving force for South Side runners.

Cultivating Community through 7onSundays

Gonzalez’s impact extended beyond Last Lap through the creation of 7onSundays. This running club, initially a gathering of friends in Douglas, evolved into a diverse and welcoming community. Participants, like Beto Cespedes, emphasize the camaraderie and support fostered by Gonzalez, making running accessible to individuals of all backgrounds.

The Missing Piece: Last Lap Fills a Void

Before Last Lap, the South Side lacked running events and specialty running gear stores. Gonzalez identified this gap and swiftly conceived the idea for Last Lap, bridging the divide and providing a dedicated space for the running community in his neighborhood.

Challenges and Triumphs: Last Lap’s Temporary Closure

The recent temporary closure of Last Lap presented challenges for Gonzalez. Balancing job search efforts with business promotion, fundraising, and property tours, he faced a complex array of tasks. Despite the hurdles, Gonzalez was featured in a Brooks Running documentary series, further highlighting the importance of minority-owned running stores.

Paving the Way Forward: A Hopeful Future

With a GoFundMe campaign supported by Brooks Running, Gonzalez aims to secure $200,000 for Last Lap’s new storefront, staffing, and operational needs. While there’s no set timeline for reopening, Gonzalez remains optimistic about continuing his mission to create inclusive spaces for runners from diverse backgrounds.

Nurturing the Love for Running and Community

Ian Gonzalez’s relationship with running has evolved into a commitment to serve his community. By fostering inclusivity, Last Lap has become a symbol of empowerment, breaking down barriers and encouraging individuals to embrace the joy of running, irrespective of their background.