The Lostboys represent the true beauty of the running community. A bold statement, hard to prove by an Instagram account alone, but that is part of the magic. These athletes represent a subculture of the running community, previously untapped, that blurs the line between traditional and modern. These athletes are heavily influenced by the professional circuit and lifestyle, yet more dynamic, and brimming with personality. They bring the best aspects of "running culture" to life. 

Let's face it, there is a blatant disconnect between professional athletes and high school, college, or even recreational runners. When you hear that the top talent in the world runs 130 miles per week, trains at altitude, and never drinks beer, it's really hard to imagine yourself in their shoes. But then here are the Lostboys, a subset the Brooklyn Track Club, coached by standout runner Steve Finley (@notafraid2finley). This New York based group of athletes represents the same dedication to the sport present in the elites, but in a more human vessel. These people work full-time jobs, squeeze their miles in when they can, and crush workouts, races and anything that gives them the excuse to "Fly the L."

They represent more than a run club - they are a team, a family, a community, a support system, and a new way to look at the distance running lifestyle. 

So how are the Lostboys different then any other track club or training group?

Tim explained his vision like this: "Lostboys is not a team as much as it is a philosophy: we are bonded by our belief in seemingly impossible dreams."

It's about more than just the singlet, it's about celebrating athletes of all levels. 

Tim wasn't always lacing up 4%s. His first love was on the soccer pitch. He played through his youth with little interest in the "running culture" he is so deeply enthralled with today. But his soccer background emerges in the team dynamics of his group. 

"It's motivating to be surrounded by people that not only believe in themselves but also believe in you. We are all on invisible paths in pursuit of something, and it's a lot more fun being on that path together." 

And fun they do have - there is nothing quite like the chemistry between the members of the Lostboys/Brookyn Track Club. They are welcoming, open-minded, and just excited that you took time out of your day to catch a couple of miles.

Tim attributes this team dynamic to an omnipresent theme in all members: "But I guess the main point is we are a group of like-minded individuals that have simply refused to believe that our crazy dreams are actually crazy."

The group itself, much like the "lost" in the name implies, is eclectic. It's as if you cast a net into a sea of runners and after reeling it in and shaking it out, you found a miscellaneous mashup to speed, background, and personality. It doesn't matter the distance, the surface, or the time of year, you'll find someone to train with. While many of these athletes come from different aerobic backgrounds, they all share big dreams and a love and appreciation for the sport that shapes both their minds and bodies. That's really it. There's no big plan here, they don't want to take your money, or sell you a product. They want to make running a better place for all of us. The Lostboys represent running for the right reasons. These blue-collar athletes crush their sessions because they want to, not because someone told them to. It's more than the singlet, the logo, and that really stupid hand gesture. It's about Culture, Vibes, and Lifestyle (or something like that).

Thanks to Tim, Jeremy, Leigh Anne, Steve, Dan and Mike for welcoming us and letting us tell part of your story.

Words and Photos by Benjamin Weingart

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