WEPA: The NYC Crew Where Work, Excellence, Perseverance, and Achievement Build a Family

In the summer of 2016, a new running crew was formed in New York City with a powerful and specific mission: to inspire those who were intimidated by running or thought it was just not possible. WEPA was founded to help people run their first mile and to guide them in making running a part of their everyday lifestyle. What they have built is more than a running club; it's a family that just wants to run and inspire others to join them on the journey.

A Philosophy of Achievement and Joy

The philosophy of WEPA is brilliantly captured in its name. The crew's identity is built on the acronym Work-Excel-Persevere-Achieve. They believe that in order to excel, you have to work for it, and in order to achieve, you must first persevere. This strong, motivational mindset is perfectly balanced by the cultural meaning of "¡Wepa!," a joyful and energetic exclamation popular in many Latinx communities. This duality defines them: a group that is serious about the grind but joyful in their spirit.

The community of WEPA has successfully created a true "family atmosphere." Their culture is built on the principles of mutual support and accountability. By providing a safe and encouraging space, they have helped countless people overcome their initial fears and hesitations about running, turning newcomers into dedicated runners and individuals into a cohesive and supportive family.

WEPA extends a warm and energetic invitation to anyone and everyone in New York City. Whether you have never run a mile in your life or are a seasoned athlete, they want to inspire you to join their journey. For those seeking a supportive family to hold them accountable and celebrate their achievements, they are encouraged to connect with the crew through their official social media channels.

The New York City Running Scene

WEPA brings its unique, culturally rich, and motivational spirit to the incredible running ecosystem of New York City. They share the streets with a multitude of other crews, each with a powerful community mission. This includes their neighbors in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx, like the pioneering Harlem Run, which is dedicated to empowering its community through fitness, and the Boogie Down Bronx Runners, who run under the banner of "All for our borough!"

The five boroughs of New York City are a massive and diverse playground for runners. From the iconic loop of Central Park to the scenic paths of the Hudson River Greenway, there are endless routes to explore. The premier racing event in the city is the TCS New York City Marathon, an epic journey through all five boroughs of New York City. A major highlight for crews in their area is the NYRR Bronx 10 Mile, a massive race that celebrates the vibrant running culture of the borough.