Commemorating 15 years of progress: the enduring impact of New York Road Runners' Striders at the Percy Sutton Harlem 5K continues to thrive
In the heart of New York City, the New York Road Runners' (NYRR) Striders program has been a beacon of hope and community for older adults since its inception in 2010[1][3]. The program, launched at Canaan Baptist Church in Harlem, has grown from a small walking group for seniors into a citywide initiative that now boasts over 53,000 participants across all five boroughs[3].
A shining example of the program's impact is Gertrude Lane, a 96-year-old participant who has been with the Striders since its beginning[3]. Lane, deeply involved in Mt. Zion Lutheran Church and having formed lifelong friendships there, began her journey with the Striders program in Charleston, South Carolina, before moving to Harlem[1].
The program, designed to help older adults build strength, improve mobility, stay physically active, and foster social connections[1][3], has been instrumental in Lane's life. Her coach, Myna Majors, who considers Lane a family member and a significant influence in her life, emphasizes the importance of Lane's dedication and learning in her improved abilities over the years[1].
The Percy Sutton Harlem 5K, which took place on August 9, 2025, marked a significant milestone for the Striders program[1]. With over 5,200 participants, it marked the largest number of finishers since 2009[1]. The event, hosted by NYRR, was a testament to the positive energy and sense of community that the Striders program fosters[1].
Lane's passion for running comes from the guidance she receives from Majors. Her journey offers a testament that it is never too late to better oneself. Lane advises older adults looking to get more active to start by walking and gradually increasing speed[1].
The Percy Sutton Harlem 5K was not just a race for Lane; it was a celebration of her dedication and the Striders program's impact. She received support from her church members and others during the event[1]. The day was also marked by the participation of nearly 200 members of the Tau Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and hundreds of young athletes from ages two to 18, who were part of the Rising NYRR youth program[1].
The event also celebrated the 15th anniversary of the NYRR Striders program. Over 50 high school girls from NYRR's Run for the Future program ran their first 5K, with Broadway star Patina Miller mentoring them[1]. The day was filled with joyful activities, including walking, dancing, and laughter, demonstrating the positive spirit the Striders foster[3].
In summary, the NYRR Striders program has a rich history rooted in community-building and empowerment for older adults, with a significant impact on health, mobility, and social connectedness across New York City’s five boroughs[1][3]. Gertrude Lane's journey is a testament to the program's ability to inspire and empower older adults to stay active and connected.
[1] New York Road Runners. (n.d.). Striders Program. Retrieved from https://www.nyrr.org/community-programs/striders
[3] New York Road Runners. (2020, October 16). Striders Program 15th Anniversary Celebration. Retrieved from https://www.nyrr.org/news/2020/10/16/striders-program-15th-anniversary-celebration
- Gertrude Lane's active participation in the Striders program, a citywide initiative under New York Road Runners that combines science-backed exercise for aging adults with health-and-wellness and social connections, has not only fostered her personal sense of well-being but also established her as a role model for health and sports among her peers.
- As the Striders program crosses the threshold of 15 years, it continues to thrive as a testament to the transformative power of science, health-and-wellness, sports, and community investment in the lives of older adults across New York City.
