Juan Perez
Class of 2019
Juan Perez was one of the top Masters and Grand Masters runners in one of the toughest Masters and Grandmasters fields in the history of the club. As he and his competitors aged they made each new level the toughest age-group bracket in club races. He traded victories with such luminaries as Brendan Minihan Sr., Don Wright, Bill Leach, Tom Hopkins, Desmond O'Connor and more. Juan has always been a fierce competitor who loved winning and making his opponents suffer but he has always demonstrated good sportsmanship and respect for his opponents and carries himself with integrity.
A construction worker and cement engineer by trade and kickboxer in recreation, Juan has never been afraid of hard work. That shows in his racing. Juan added depth to a field of Masters, Grandmasters and now Senior runners in the community that maintains racing and competition as one of the pillars of the track club. He has pushed his competitors and inspired younger generations to work hard and strive for speed and victory.
In 1987 at age 45 he ran a 17:14 5K at the Gumbo Fest. In 2002 at age 58 he ran an 18:22 at Run through History. In 2017 at age 72 he ran a 23:54 at Al Briede. As well known for his black socks and awesome cars as for his racing speed, Juan is one of the most recognizable and admired runners in the area.


