every runner has a story
Meet Angi Griffin
► From: Lakeland, FL
► Started Running: 2012, at age 56
► LRC 2022 Race Planning Committee Chair
In 2012, a friend encouraged Angi Griffin to walk around Lake Hollingsworth instead of working out indoors, and though initially intimidated by the runners, she agreed. After weeks of walking and seeing others older than herself out there running, Angi decided to give running a try, and the rest is history.
What is your favorite thing about being connected to LRC?
It’s really hard to pick one specific thing. The feeling of community is at the top of my list. I’ve met so many wonderful people.
Why do you serve on the LRC board?
It happened quite by accident when Gail Hardy asked Lynn King and I to be Watermelon co-race directors a few years back. Working closely with the board as a race director allowed me to see all the inner workings of the club, their mission, and the need for more people to step up. By the time the last Watermelon race over, I knew I wanted to be part of helping the club in a more active role. It really does take a village of committed like-minded individuals (volunteers) to do all the things the club does throughout the year. LRC offers so many wonderful opportunities to touch lives in a positive way through group runs, races, and educational activities, and I wanted to be a part of this.
What is your favorite running memory?
I’d have to say participating in the Aching Quad Challenge is a favorite. For several years I avoided signing up because I didn’t think I could do it. But I signed up with a group of friends and we had a blast. I did it! I didn’t die! LOL! And I placed in my age group! So…win win win!
What is something most people don’t know about you?
I’m pretty much an open book so this question is challenging. Maybe folks don’t know that I was born in Lakeland, grew up in the Green Swamps on a small farm, and have lived in Lakeland all my life with the exception of 5 years in Chicago when my husband was transferred. While I thoroughly enjoyed our time in Chicago, I’m a country girl at heart.
Share This Post
More To Explore

Meet Sarah Kozul
The Lakeland Runners Club exists to promote running and fitness for runners of all ages and abilities in the community. We are led entirely by volunteers, and for many years Sarah Kozul has been a dedicated volunteer to the club, executing behind the scenes with many, many hours donated to the benefit of LRC, and the entire running community.

Meet Ken Steckert
Ken likes running fast. While his approach to training may not be textbook, he discovered what captivates so many of us about the running community – that everyone is welcome and the right way to run is simply to get out there and run.

Meet Kenny Greenwell
A runner for the past 40 years, Kenny Greenwell still has big goals at age 72. Kenny ran his first marathon in 1984 in Louisville, KY and finished his 100th in Louisville in 2018. He’s now targeting a half marathon goal of 100, and Kenny is giving himself eight years to finish the last 31 13.1 events.

Meet Ellen & Todd Vargo
Ellen and Todd Vargo’s journey into the Lakeland running community highlights their dedication to health, camaraderie, and the joy they find in the sport.
