NAME: Fredrell (Fred) Evans
Age: 42
Chapter/City: Atlanta
Years w/ BMR: 1 year (Feb 2025)
1. What started your running journey?
If you’d asked me as a teen, I would’ve never thought running would be something I’d enjoy as an adult. My running journey started as a way to be more active and offset some unhealthy eating habits. I completed my first 5K in January 2013, and that started what has become something I’ve genuinely grown to love.
2. How far have you travelled to do a race, and what was it?
In 2014, I traveled to Chicago to run the Chicago Spring Half Marathon—my first time traveling out of state for a race. In 2015, I visited Philadelphia to run the Philly Love Run Half Marathon.
3. What has been your biggest challenge as a runner, and how did you overcome it?
In late 2024, I began training for my first full marathon (2025 Publix Atlanta Marathon). In any training plan, the miles keep increasing whether you’re ready or not. I didn’t anticipate needing additional time and support to break through some running plateaus. Most of my runs were solo, and that didn’t work for me long-term. I learned that I need the support of running with others—especially on long run days—to get that extra push and make it through.
4. Funniest thing to happen to you during a race?
I don’t really have any funny race moments, but I’ve definitely had a couple of unexpected falls while running. The most recent was just before the 2026 Polar Opposite. I went out with a friend for a Saturday long run from Piedmont Park to Lenox Mall and back—a 13-mile day. Not even one mile in, I tripped and fell forward, rolling to brace my fall while the water bottle I was holding went in the opposite direction. Thankfully, no harm was done. After a few seconds on the ground, I laughed it off, got up, and kept going.
5. What’s something without which you cannot run?
Music. I’ve gone back home without it. Music helps me zone out and serves as white noise for all my inner thoughts and self-coaching during a run. Without it, I feel tired sooner and mentally exhausted.
6. What keeps you motivated?
New challenges keep me motivated. My run community keeps me motivated—the SQUAD.
7. What has running taught you about yourself?
I’ve learned that I can do hard things.
8. Are there any specific workouts or drills you find particularly effective?
I’ve learned to stay consistent with weight training to help avoid injuries. Other than that, my drill is simple: left foot, right foot, repeat.
9. How did you find Black Men Run?
I’ve known about BMR for years. When I first started running, I would see the group out regularly around the time it was formed. I tend to do most things solo due to social anxiety, but in the last couple of years, I’ve explored more of what Atlanta’s running community has to offer. I attended my first Monday night run in February 2025 and have been a part of the group ever since.
10. Best part about being a member of BMR?
The camaraderie with like-minded individuals. Iron sharpens iron. We’re all pushing each other to be better versions of ourselves and building lasting, meaningful friendships. I look forward to the laughs, the jokes, the hard runs, and the next race.
11. Do you have a specific role within BMR?
2026 Ambassador – BMR Atlanta
Social Media Team – BMR Atlanta
But mainly: SHOW UP AND RUN