NAMES [Dad, son]: Mark Monroe Sr, Mark Monroe Jr, Myles Monroe
Ages: 51, 17, 15
Chapter/City: Black Men Run Atlanta – Captain
Years w/BMR: 12 years and counting
What does running together mean to you – “It allows me to build a stronger bond with my sons. It feels good knowing we share something in common that pushes us to grow, challenge ourselves, and have fun together.”
How has running changed your relationship? – “It gives us a chance to unplug from devices and step into a safe space where we can truly be free.”
When you run together, who sets the pace? – “Depends on the day. Some days MJ wants to push pace. Other day we ran at a nice conversation pace. To be honest, if you run too fast, you’ll miss out on those moments to reflect.”
Funniest thing to happen to you during a race? – “I forgot my running shoes, so I had to run in MJ’s shoes… My toes were blistering that day.”
Who talks more during your runs? “MJ, for sure. He talks the most during our runs—especially when we take a new route. He gets excited about what’s around him, pointing things out, asking questions. It’s like an adventure for him, and I love seeing the world through his eyes.”
Who is more competitive? “Myles is the more competitive one. He’ll talk you into running at an easy pace, make it feel like a casual jog—until he spots a crowd. Then, out of nowhere, he kicks it up a notch and takes off when you least expect it.”
What’s the best conversation you’ve had while running? “Some of the best conversations we’ve had while running are about the challenges they face—in school and in life. We talk about the expectations that come with being a teenager, and what it really means to grow into a man. There’s something about running side by side that makes those conversations flow easier. No pressure, just honesty.”
Who is more likely to forget their running shoes? “Definitely Myles”
Do you 2 have a post-run/race tradition? “After every run or race, we always stop for a meal. It’s become our tradition—a time to cool down, refuel, and keep the one-on-one conversations going. That space lets them open about whatever’s on their mind. One of my goals this year is to help him hit a new PR during cross country season. I want us to run a few races together and crush them—side by side.”
What advice would you give to other dads and sons thinking about running together? – “You’ll become closer to your sons if you run with them. It gives them time away from their phones and other distractions. They’ll feel better about themselves, and they’ll remember that you chose to spend quality time with them. Trust me—you won’t regret it.”
