Girls Run NYC: Jessie Zapo's Collective for Community and Transformation
The story of Girls Run NYC is a testament to the vision and leadership of its founder, Jessie Zapo (Jessica Zapotechne), a central figure in the city's running community. Her desire to share the transformative power of running that had been so impactful in her own life led her to create a women-specific collective at the end of 2014. The first workout, held in the dead of winter out of the Chari and Co cycling shop in the Lower East Side, saw nearly 20 women brave the cold, proving the immediate need for such a community. This humble beginning was the start of a journey that has since seen hundreds of women find their stride together.
Jessie Zapo, an art therapist and certified USATF coach, is the heart and soul of Girls Run NYC. Known throughout the community as "the First Lady" for her decade-plus of experience and her role in connecting people to the city's many run crews, she designed the collective with a specific purpose. She wanted to create a space that directly addressed the apprehensions many women have about running, whether they are new, experienced, or just getting back into it. Her philosophy is that running is a "great equalizer"—a pursuit where hard work pays off—and that doing it in a group provides accountability, motivation, and the chance to form powerful, authentic bonds.
Over the years, Girls Run NYC has fostered a powerful and self-sustaining community. Hundreds of women have participated in their workouts, and many of the original members have stepped up to become leaders within the collective. This demonstrates a deep commitment among the members to show up not only for themselves but for each other. The group serves as a testament to the idea that running collectively can strip away pretense and allow people to be their authentic selves, forging strong friendships over shared miles. At Girls Run NYC, you're not just a runner, you're part of a supportive and inspiring community.
The culture of Girls Run NYC revolves around its unique and adaptable weekly workout. Every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. sharp, dozens of women gather at the track in McCarren Park, Brooklyn. The session is track-based, but it's designed to be accessible for all, even those who have never run competitive track in their lives. The workout is a testament to the group's inclusivity, allowing women of all paces and abilities to run together and get what they need from the session, whether that's an intense workout or a social, steady run.
Girls Run NYC warmly welcomes all women to join their community. The group was specifically designed to be a comfortable entry point for those who might be apprehensive about running. The easiest way to get involved and confirm the weekly workout details is to send a direct message to their official Instagram account, @girlsrunnyc.
While the home base for Girls Run NYC is the McCarren Park track in Brooklyn, the city offers countless iconic running routes. Runners can enjoy the rolling hills of Central Park's six-mile loop in Manhattan, or take on the legendary bridges connecting the boroughs, such as the Brooklyn Bridge and Williamsburg Bridge, for challenging climbs and unparalleled skyline views. The paths along the West Side Highway and through Prospect Park in Brooklyn also offer miles of uninterrupted running for the city's millions of athletes.
