July 10, 2025

𝗟𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗥𝘂𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗥𝘂𝗻 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝗯 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝘀 𝗮 𝗠𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗰𝗸𝘁𝗼𝗻—𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗽 𝗮𝘁 𝗮 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲

Before it had a name, the LoneRunner Run Club was just one person: Emilie Feyry Natividad. A familiar face in Fort Stockton, Emilie had been running solo since 2016, using each step as a personal outlet—for stress relief, healing, and growth. But in recent years, her solitary runs transformed into something much more.

“I just put it out there,” Emilie said. “Even if it’s just me by myself, at least it's a platform—something to encourage somebody else, just like me, to start running.”

That simple act of showing up became the foundation for a movement. Now, the LoneRunner Run Club is a growing group of early risers and evening joggers who meet regularly for free, no-pressure community runs downtown. But at its heart, LoneRunner isn’t about running fast or far—it’s about showing up for yourself.

A Club for Everyone—But Especially for You. The name "LoneRunner" holds deep meaning. “Yes, you’re doing it by yourself. But are you really alone? Not necessarily. Lone... yourself, your soul. Then 'runner'—together,” Emilie explained.

Whether you’re an experienced athlete or someone just trying to move more, the club welcomes all levels. “It’s not about running. It’s about movement,” Emilie said. Some members walk the route. Others listen to podcasts or call loved ones while they go. Some push for new personal records, like the five LoneRunners who just set PRs at the Fort Davis Fourth of July 5K. And then there are days when Emilie herself forces a rare rest day—because even someone who runs every day needs to recharge.

What binds them together is not pace or distance, but purpose.

An Outlet and a Mirror. “I use running for everything,” Emilie said. “For distress, for clarity. Now it’s like—it’s part of me. If I don’t do it, I don’t feel wholesome. My whole day feels off.”

That emotional bond with running became the motivation to open the club to others. She created a schedule—Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 6 a.m., meeting by Paisano Pete, and occasional Thursday evening runs ending at Joe’s Place for tacos. The routes wind through downtown Fort Stockton, giving runners a quiet moment to notice the city around them—and reflect on its changes.

“You get to see Fort Stockton. You take a step back from the routine. And it kind of hurts because... we’re dying, and we’re letting it die,” Emilie said, her voice heavy with concern and care for her hometown.

She remembers walking freely as a child from her mom’s shop down Main Street for ice cream, dance class, or just to feel the energy of a thriving downtown. “Stockton’s so strong at building strong people. But let’s make them strong to make Stockton strong, too.”

A Legacy in Motion. The group’s rabbit logo—nicknamed the “Rack Rabbit”—has its own story. “My dad used to be called ‘Conejo’ when he worked the vineyards—he was always running around, getting stuff done. And one of my friends called me ‘Conejita’ without even knowing. It just stuck.”

In that moment, a symbol was born—one that honors family, grit, and the drive to keep moving forward.

That personal connection runs deep. Emilie recently discovered she’s of Tarahumara descent—a people known for their incredible endurance and love of running. “I thought, no wonder I love to run. I always say: to run is to fly. Nothing else feels better.”

Running, she says, saved her life. And now, it’s changing others’.

A Safe, Soulful Space. Safety and inclusivity are key concerns. Emilie urges runners to wear reflective gear and stay aware—she’s seen too many close calls from distracted drivers. But with downtown now quieter in the mornings, she sees potential. “People are used to working out at the park. Why not downtown?”

The runs aren’t tracked with fancy apps or competitive leaderboards. Progress here is personal. “You versus you,” Emilie often says. She checks in with each member—what are they training for? How are they feeling? How can she encourage them?

The club also builds connections beyond Fort Stockton. Emilie helps sponsor events like the Pink Run, Barrio Fest, and the Marathon to Marathon. And whether someone is visiting town or living here full-time, they’re welcome to join.

Come Run, Walk, or Just Be Present. The LoneRunner Run Club is open, free, and ready for you—yes, you. Not to prove anything to anyone else. Just to give yourself a chance.

“It’s not benefiting me,” Emilie said. “It brings me joy, sure. But this is about you. It’s healthy. It’s wholesome. It’s soulful. And it’s free.”

To learn more or join a run, visit the LoneRunner Run Club Facebook Page. Message for more info, ask questions, or just show up downtown. The club meets by Paisano Pete at 6 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and occasionally hosts evening runs.

Because in Fort Stockton, movement is more than fitness—it’s community, heritage, and healing. All it takes is one step.

Photos from the July 2nd group meetup.

Photos/ Story by Tristian Barragan Journalism