ABOUT US
Champions running association
Who we are:
Champions Running Association (CRA) is a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit run club serving the Spring, Klein, Champions, Tomball, and Cypress communities.
CRA is a community first running club, not a rigid training program. As a member, you have the freedom to train for any number of races during the season or simply join us for fun runs and fitness without racing at all. While we don’t have paid coaches, our training plans are thoughtfully developed by RRCA certified coaches and experienced runners who volunteer their time and expertise. Every aspect of the club from organizing group runs to hosting social events and providing hydration support is powered entirely by our dedicated member volunteers.
How we started:
Founded in 2017, CRA was built from a simple idea: community comes first. From day one, we've offered the support and training plans to help you crush your goals with folks to share miles with. Most importantly, we believe running should be fun. Whether you're chasing a PR or just trying to make it to the next mile marker, it all starts with showing up and embracing the CRAzy spirit that connects us all.
President/Marathon Coach
Assistant Marathon Coach
Assistant Marathon Coach
Assistant Marathon Coach
Half Marathon Coach
Half Marathon Assistant Coach
5K/10K Coach
5K/10K Assistant Coach
Walkers Coach
Walkers Assistant Coach
Trail Blazers Co-Captain
Trail Blazers Co-Captain
VP/Treasurer
Membership/Communications
Community/Social
Community/Social
Leadership Team
MAKING THINGS HAPPEN
President and Co-founder | Marathon Coach (RRCA Certified Coach)
Daniel Dannug
How long have you been running? My run journey started in 2009 and my love for running led to creating CRA and co-founding the group in 2017.
Why do you run? After ten years of half marathons, I finally switched to the full and completed my 3rd Chevron Marathon in January 2023.
Tell us a bit about yourself! By day, I'm a sports chiropractor & acupuncturist and owner of HealthPro Chiropractic and Acupuncture @myhealthpro.chiro.htx. I seek to grow the running community in the area and hope to bring together runners of all levels to push & motivate each other and achieve goals they once thought were unattainable. I'm a three-time Chevron Marathon race ambassador. When I'm not running, I enjoy family time with my wife, Leanne, and our kids.
Vice President/Treasurer | RRCA Certified Coach
Renee Alfaro
How long have you been running? Technically, since 2004. Consistently, since 2012.
Why do you run? I began running after I happened to be at Walt Disney World during their marathon weekend in 2003. After seeing “normal people” that looked like me running and FINISHING the marathon, I wanted to do it. So, I began training in 2004 and ran my one (and only) marathon in 2005 to celebrate a milestone birthday. After a long break from running, where I gained a ton of weight, I started running again in 2012. Since then, I have run 5 half-marathons, 2 10K’s, a ten miler, and numerous 5K’s. Although I previously used running as an excuse to travel and earn cool medals, I now run to improve my health.
How did you get involved in a running group? I could not have finished my marathon without joining a running group. They taught me form, gave me a program I could follow, and best of all, encouragement. After years of being sedentary, I rejoined the running club to hold me accountable for exercising. I knew that if I missed a Saturday or two, the coach would be calling. Now I run to see my friends (or, should I say, my Run Family).
Tell us a bit about yourself! I love traveling, especially to Disney or the Netherlands, and Saturdays in the fall find me cheering on my Huskers! When at home, I’m entertained by my two terrier mixes Phoebe and Penny.
Membership/Communications (RRCA Certified Coach)
Sarah Nguyen
How long have you been running? Since 2003 when I signed up for my first half marathon during my final year of college.
Why do you run? My reasons for running have evolved over the years. My first half was to check it off my bucket list, but I quickly got hooked and started singing up for every race I could find. I fell in love with the training process and runner’s high of crossing the finish line. After losing my dad in a car accident and my sister to breast cancer, running became more than a hobby – it became a form of therapy and daily meditation that continues to ground me before the day begins.
How did you get involved in a running group? I trained for that first half alone using Hal Higdon’s guide. While it got me to the finish line, the experience was a bit isolating. Anything over 3 miles starts to feel monotonous and my motivation dips as I think about my to do list or how nice it would be to just go home and eat! Joining a run group has kept me accountable, pushed me to train smarter and made the entire process more enjoyable with many new friends! And, I've found the swimmers and cyclists in the group too to mix things up. Yes, there's a group for EVERYONE here!
Tell us a bit about yourself! My day job involves marketing communications and program management in the Tech industry. But, my full-time job is managing a busy family of five that loves it when I bring home breakfast after a long run. I'm always up for a new fitness challenge, but NEVER Habanero again. My husband understands that running keeps me sane!
Coaches
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Champions Running Association is led by these amazing coaches below. Please reach out to them with any questions you have!
Full Marathon Coach / President
RRCA Certified Coach
Daniel Dannug
How long have you been running? My run journey started in 2009 and my love for running led to creating CRA and co-founding the group in 2017.
Why do you run? After ten years of half marathons, I finally switched to the full and completed my 3rd Chevron Marathon in January 2023.
Tell us a bit about yourself! By day, I'm a sports chiropractor & acupuncturist and owner of HealthPro Chiropractic and Acupuncture @myhealthpro.chiro.htx. I seek to grow the running community in the area and hope to bring together runners of all levels to push & motivate each other and achieve goals they once thought were unattainable. I'm a three-time Chevron Marathon race ambassador. When I'm not running, I enjoy family time with my wife, Leanne, and our kids.
Full Marathon Coach
Coleman Green
How long have you been running? I started running very inconsistently in 2018 during my freshman year of college! Since then my running was super on and off until I ended up joining CRA in 2022. Since then I've been running every day and loving doing it!
Why do you run? I run for my health, for community, to get outside, but mostly because I love it! It took me a long time to find enjoyment in running, but once I started doing it with people I love I began to see all the joys of it. Now running is my release, and it feels wrong to not run!
How did you get involved in the running group? Nepotism mostly. My dad, Jesse, has been involved for longer than I've been running. I would pop in and try running here and there whenever I was in town. Once I moved back from college I found that my dad wasn't the only family member in the run club, every person I ran with was my family member!
Tell us a bit about yourself! I've got a 1,000+ run streak day and wouldn't do it any other way! I'm married to my fellow Marathon coach Emily and we've got a beautiful little cat as our baby. When I'm not running I do food reviews on YouTube, and work as a School Psychologist. I love to yap so if you end up next to me on a run, be warned!
Marathon Assistant Coach
Emily Green
How long have you been running? Running journey began when I joined my high school Cross Country team, sparking a passion that has stayed with me ever since. I continued running into my college years at Sam Houston State University, but like many, my routine was interrupted when Covid hit.
Why do you run? I run for a lot of reasons. Initially, it was about living a healthy lifestyle, but over the years, it's grown into so much more. Running has become my outlet for stress, a time for peaceful reflection, and a way to challenge myself both mentally and physically. While all of these reasons have had a profound impact on my life, what keeps me running above all else is the community. The running community is filled with incredible people who support, encourage, and inspire each other, and I’m grateful to now call many of them best friends.
How did you get involved in a run club? It wasn't until I joined CRA in 2022 that I found my renewed love for running — and it has been one of the best decisions I've made.
Tell us something about yourself! Outside of running, I work as an HR Consultant at Achilles Group. I love spending time with my husband and fellow Marathon Coach, Coleman Green, and our cat, Milldred — who is a frequent topic of conversation for me! If you’re a fellow cat lover, I’m always happy to swap stories. In my downtime, you’ll usually find me reading, listening to podcasts, or working on Swedish weaving projects.
Marathon Assistant Coach
Morgan Jones
How long have you been running? I started running in 2012, focused purely on weight loss. Running very quickly became my safe place and an outlet during all of life’s inevitable trials and tribulations.
Why do you run? I run to inspire others who may not fit the traditional mold of a ‘runner.’ For me, running is less about perfection and more about consistency, perseverance, and community. I believe that every runner has a place on the road, the trail, and at the starting line — no matter their background, pace, or body type. Through my journey, I hope to motivate others to embrace running on their own terms and find confidence, resilience, and joy along the way.
How did you get involved in a run club? I first noticed CRA at the ARAMCO half in 2022. I remember the sea of neon and the palpable sense of community. It was in that moment that I promised myself that if I ever moved to the area, I would join. As life would have it, I relocated to the Tomball area in 2023 and won a membership by pure luck. With the support of my CRA family, I successfully completed my first marathon in January of 2025.
Tell us something about yourself! II am a Perinatal Safety Specialist/Maternal Program Manager, working to improve the quality of maternal care and reduce maternal morbidity and mortality. Outside of running, you can find me searching for the next best coffee shop or hiking remote trails with my family (especially my sweet boy, Bear).
Half Marathon Coach
Heather Blue
How long have you been running? Since 2015
Why do you run? My ‘why’ has evolved over time. Most of my life my attitude towards running was that it was only something I would do ‘if my life depended on it’ or ‘if I was being chased by a bear’. When I started running, my ‘why’ was because I needed an activity/outlet that was versatile & affordable: something I could do that I could do alone, do anywhere, didn’t require special equipment, & would be a physical challenge. Today, I run as a way to stay healthy, both physically and mentally.
How did you get involved in a running group? When I mentioned to my friend, Renee Alfaro, that I was struggling to find an outlet that would check the affordable/local/can do it solo but would be a way to meet new people boxes, she suggested a run club. I was initially hesitant (remember, I hated even the idea of running), but with Renee’s suggestion & the encouragement of another friend, I decided to give it a try. The run club gave me a program to follow, coaching support and a social group where I was able to work my way from off the couch to completing a half marathon. What I most love about CRA is the supportive familial vibe. The club meets each member where he/she is at, with coaches genuinely supporting runners and walkers of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds, with different starting points and different goals.
Tell us a bit about yourself! I’m regularly asked where I’m from and/or asked to repeat certain words as I have a drawl some folks aren’t accustomed to hearing (I’m proud to come from a long line of native Texans 😊). I enjoy meeting new people, making new friends and occasionally organizing ‘day/field trip’ runs outside of our typically CRA run routes. When not working or running, you can typically find me enjoying time with my husband and our two dogs at a park or on a dog friendly restaurant patio.
Half Marathon Assistant Coach
RRCA Certified Coach
Robert Jones
How long have you been running? Since 2019
Why do you run? I started running as a way to help me improve my health. Initially I viewed running as just a tool I used to burn calories and help me drop some pounds. Thanks to CRA I learned to love running and enjoy the process of improving my abilities. Running provides me with a time to clear my mind and relieve some stress in the process.
How did you get involved in a running group? I was recruited to join Champions Running Association in September 2020 by my brother in law. I had never run with other people before, but I am glad I gave it a chance. Everyone I met was welcoming and supportive. CRA introduced me to the social aspects of running and the awesome running community in Houston. CRA is more than just a group of people who run together. What makes CRA great are the other members, people who really support each other with running knowledge, encouragement, and companionship. Everyone is welcome in CRA no matter their experience or skill level. I’ve found some amazing friends in the Champions run family!
Tell us a bit about yourself! I grew up in the Houston area and graduated Baylor University (Sic’Em Bears!). I work as an attorney at a local law firm. When I’m not working or running with CRA I enjoy spending time with my wife Sandy and my two daughters Grace and Reagan.
5K/10K Coach / CKC Spring Coach
RRCA Certified Coach
Hector Ornelas
How long have you been running? I’ve ran off and on my entire life, but everything changed in January of 2019. In January, I set a goal to run another full marathon by May of 2020. I never expected to fall in love with running and just thought I would cross a marathon off my list and be done, but that was far from the case. Once I found out my “WHY”, running became a part of me
Why do you run? I run for my family, I run to set a good example for my kids, I run because it gives me an outlet to release all of my stresses, I run because its fun, I run because I love my running community, but most importantly, I run because I CAN.
How did you get involved in a running group? When I decided to run another marathon, I knew I needed to do it the right way this time and in my head, right was joining a running club. I wanted to be surrounded by like minded people who had the same goals as me. Joining a running club has meant everything to me! I’ve meet some amazing people and get inspired daily by all of their accomplishments.
Tell us something about yourself! One thing you should know about me is that I’m a die hard longhorn fan and college football fan, so be ready to discuss this on our fall morning runs! I’m the proud father of four amazing kids, Santiago, Gabriel, Sophia, and Lilianna.
5K/10K Assistant Coach
Lezlie Walla-Nance
How long have you been running? I started running in 2019. I ran a mile without stopping for the first time in my life that year.
Why do you run? Battling weight since a kid, I had tried every form of exercise but eventually would always quit. Whenever I attempted running again, my “eye of the tiger” vision was run a 5k. After having bariatric surgery, I knew I had to make a total lifestyle change. Running was one of the big changes I made and I’ve stuck with it. The runner’s high is real.
How did you get involved with a run club? I became a runner on the treadmill. The gyms closing during Covid forced me to become an outside runner. As restrictions lifted, I wanted to keep it up and wanted to join a running group. An old friend of mine from high school ran with CRA and encouraged me to join. There's not a word I can think of that could adequately sum up what CRA is to me. It’s family, it’s encouragement, it’s inclusion, it’s pushing each other, it’s showing up when one of us needs the accountability, and it’s getting great content for the ‘gram with lots of group run selfies. Now, my partner and two middle kids show up to run 5ks and 1ks with many other CRA kids. And the CRA adults are on the sidelines cheering the loudest for them.
Tell us a bit about yourself! Outside of work/family/working out, you'll find me at the barn with my horse. I’ve ridden Hunter/Jumper since I was 6 years old and am just as obsessed now as I was then.
Walkers Coach
Kimberly White
How long have you been walking? I’ve been on my walking and wellness journey for several years, but I joined Champions Running Association in 2022 and that’s when it really became consistent and purposeful.
Why do you walk? Walking became a turning point for me. After becoming a widow at 55, I knew I needed to prioritize my health and keep moving forward, physically and mentally. It’s helped me stay active, work toward my goals (including a 25 lb. weight loss), and build strength along the way. I may not love running, but I love walking fast and pushing myself to improve.
How did you get involved in a run club? I joined CRA to stay committed to my journey, and it quickly became more than just exercise. Early morning miles, shared goals, and the encouragement from others kept me coming back. Over time, I got more involved and now have the honor of serving as Head Coach for the Walkers group. Our group is about more than just walking. We focus on fitness, health, community, and personal progress. We welcome all levels, whether you’re just starting out or working toward 5Ks, 10Ks, or even half marathons.
Tell us a bit about yourself! I recently married a fellow CRA walker, Paul, so this journey has truly become a shared one. I’m also a proud dog mom to four mini dachshunds! No matter your pace or distance, there’s a place for you here. Whether you're building up to 3–4 miles or training toward race distances, you’ll find support, encouragement, and great company along the way. Come walk with us—you might surprise yourself with what you can do.
Walkers Assistant Coach
Caren Green
How long have you been walking? I have always enjoyed walking and joined CRA last June with the group.
Why do you walk? I walk to stay fit and keep moving. Although I sometimes find it hard to get up on a Saturday morning, I feel so accomplished when have walked.
How did you get involved in a running group? Jesse Green had been bugging me for 6 years to join the walkers group. When I finally did, I realized what I had been missing and never looked back.
Tell us a bit about yourself! I am from London, UK and have lived in America for almost 40 years and in Houston for 13 years. Jesse and I have been married for 32 years. We have two children, Kathryn married to Austin. Coleman married to Emily. I work as a Transaction Coordinator for the Lester | Warren team with Gary Greene and I have been with them for 9 years.
Trail Blazers Co-Captain
Nicole Cruz
How long have you been running? 5th grade, Field Day. I chose the long distance event/XC style run and LOVED it. Cross country through middle & high school, casually ran some 5k’s, 10k’s, a half, and a trail marathon before finding CRA in 2022. Then, the ultra running started!
Why do you run? SO many reasons, I could write a book! My 5th grade field day coincided with a big life event for me, then as a way to work through eating disorders that started in my teens, heartbreak and grief throughout life, a traumatic bout of decompression sickness, and the anxiety/postpartum rollercoaster. Running is something that can be done anywhere and it allows me to be in one of my favorite places; exploring outside. Now it’s just woven into my existence. It’s been a constant for me throughout life, has kept me grounded (sometimes literally), grown and challenged me physically, mentally/emotionally, and the best of all; spiritually! Being able to roam freely is such a gift and getting to meet and run with so many amazing people is icing on the cake!
How did you get involved in a run club? I showed up to a Fleet Feet Vintage Park run that some of the CRA members were at. Jesse Green told me about CRA and I signed up that night! Less solo running and a whole new (run) family for life!
Tell us something about yourself! I’m originally from Ohio. In 2013 my best fur baby (aka dog) Scruffy and I were relocated to Houston for my job. I then met my husband the weekend I moved here. I’m now a Mama of 3, +2 (grown) bonus “kids” and a cat. Inspired by others in CRA, I’m just over 3.5 years into my minimum 1 mile/day run streak. I’m multi-passionate so when I’m not working, running, playing games or having dance parties with my kids, I’m probably at a scouting event, church, gardening, fishing, playing tennis, crafting, baking, reading, writing, hunting (seldomly these days), sewing, working on a new DIY project at home, pursuing a new hobby, or dreaming up some sort of running or travel adventure.
Trail Blazers Co-Captain
Katrina Kjellander
How long have you been running? I ran track in middle and high school, but I fell back in love with running in 2015 when I completed my first half marathon.
Why do you run? I always feel my strongest when I've been training consistently. It's good for my sanity as well and allows me to better show up for other people in my life. Plus, watching the early morning light spill in through the trees is just good for the soul.
How did you get involved with a run club? I learned about CRA at a Fleet Feet event. I was just returning to running after having my son, and was thankful to find other members to share very early miles with before my family was up for the day and the busy schedules began. Being surrounded by people and who celebrated progress over perfection made the grind of building back fitness such a joy.
Tell us a bit about yourself! I originally found long distance running as part of training for bigger backpacking and mountaineering trips. Now, with my husband and two small kids, trail running provides much more accessible adventures. I also like to bake and occasionally show up with treats to share.
Community-Social / CKC Spring Coach RRCA Certified Coach
Jesse Green
How long have you been running? Since 2018, thanks to CRA
Why do you run? I started running as way to lose weight. I was able to lose 100 pounds by running and dieting in little over a year. Once I realized I could do it and not keep making excuses, running actually became fun. Now, thanks to CRA I look forward to running with a great group of friends.
How did you get involved with a run club? My great friend Heather Blue told me about the run group. I was hesitant at first since I was not running regularly and not in very good shape. But Heather was persistent and convinced me to join. I remember one of the first team runs with Coach Lorraine. I told her I was not much of a talker when running and even sprinted a mile or so in order to get away from her and having to talk. Now it is probably harder to get me to stop talking!
Tell us a bit about yourself! I grew up playing baseball, football and basketball all through high school. Went into the US Army in 1987 and worked most of my military time in the Washington Military District. I played softball for the US Army Military District for 3 years and won several military titles. I am married to a wonderful and understanding wife (of my addiction to running), Caren. I have 2 children, Kathryn 29 and Coleman 24.
Community-Social
Angela Leong
How long have you been running? Started running 2017.
Why do you run? I run for the challenge and fitness. I run to be with friends and to build community. Running challenges, me mentally and physically.
How did you get involved in a run club? I got involved in run club to support my friend Daniel. 8 years later I’ve made amazing friends. I’ve managed to run all distances from 5k’s to full marathons. I still have plans for that one half ironman and one ultra. I accomplished all kinds of running goals. I’ve experienced a few setbacks and coming back is always an amazing journey. CRA is community, family, memories, a journey and a story. We as a family enjoy encouraging, motivating, supporting, teaching and being present with our new and current members. With all communities, what you get out of it is what you put into it. “If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.” What are you waiting for?! “You can do hard things.”
Tell us something about yourself! Born and raised in Houston, Texas. A mom to Maia and wife to Mike Leong. I am not your typical Registered Nurse. I work as a project manager in Clinical
Activations with Clinical Design and Planning. I LOVE sweets and baked goods. If I am not running, I am with family or creative time. I enjoy learning and expressing myself through creative outlets. I am the owner and camera woman behind Angela Leong Photography. I own Halo Halo Studio-a creative space of creative goods from jewelry to artisan crafts to one day workshops. “Be Curious, Go Explore, make it Happen.”