Newport Run Club & Jake Luna: How a Simple Idea Turned Into a Community Movement

We cruised the harbor with Jake Luna, founder of Newport Run Club, to unpack how one unexpected decision changed his life—and sparked a growing community. Jake shares his personal journey of moving to Newport Beach, navigating the challenge of making new friends, and how running—something he never enjoyed—became the catalyst for connection.

What began as a casual conversation at happy hour quickly turned into running with a few friends, and within weeks, the launch of Newport Run Club. In this conversation, Jake reflects on how the club evolved from a small group into a true movement, welcoming everyone from young professionals to parents running with their kids, grandparents, and high school students.

More than fitness, Newport Run Club has become a place where strangers show up and leave feeling like they belong.