Julie Lanaux

Bio

Julie Lanaux's journey into running defies the typical athlete's story. Before becoming a prominent figure in the Dallas running community, she was actually a dedicated ballet dancer, spending six nights a week with a ballet company - much to her sports-loving father's chagrin. Ironically, the daughter he wished would play softball would later become the one making headlines in the sports pages for her running achievements. Her transformation into a runner began in 2006 when she attended her father-in-law's Ironman race in Kona. Inspired by the energy of the event, she and her then-fiancé (now husband) Andre jumped straight into a five-mile Thanksgiving race with zero training - a decision that left her barely able to walk downstairs for days afterward. Despite this challenging start, Julie persevered, gradually progressing from local 5Ks to half marathons, and eventually to marathons, completing her first full marathon at the Dallas Marathon (then White Rock) in 2009. In 2011, Julie joined the White Rock Running Co-op, where she would later become one of its most influential administrators. Under her leadership, the group has become known for successfully balancing serious training with social enjoyment, famous for their post-run gatherings featuring everything from tacos to mimosas. Her approach to running community leadership is notably thoughtful - she even considers details like choosing venues with long tables to ensure newcomers feel welcome. Julie continues to set personal records (PRs) well into her running career, challenging the conventional wisdom about progression in the sport. While she's an accomplished runner who can complete a half marathon in the low 1:30s, her true passion lies in building community and helping others achieve their running goals. She's known for her approachability and her talent for making the sport accessible to runners of all levels. Beyond running, Julie has built deep friendships through the sport, traveling the world with fellow runners and turning what started as a fitness activity into a lifestyle that combines athletic achievement with social connection. Her story demonstrates how running can be both a serious athletic pursuit and a pathway to lasting friendships, showing that you can chase race goals while still enjoying life's celebrations along the way. Copy Retry