Aníbal Zelada is a calm, methodical, and organised 68-year-old man. With white hair, glasses, and sharp eyes that miss nothing. He carries the quiet confidence of someone who has spent a lifetime building things with care, whether in tech, corporate strategy, or… the running community in Paraguay. When running was still a niche interest in the country in 2008, Aníbal formed what would become Asunción Runners.
The community began as a casual team of 12 people training for the Buenos Aires Marathon, and grew into Paraguay’s leading race organisation, reaching nearly 20,000 followers on the Asunción Runners Club Instagram. But at its core, this has always been about more than running: it is about community, transformation, and purpose.
“Originally, we did not set out to organise races,” says Aníbal. “We just wanted to create a team where everyone felt welcome. The rest came because people believed in what we were doing.”
Tech at the core
With a background in technology, Aníbal quickly modernised the club’s operations. Asunción Runners was the first running group in Paraguay to implement a fully integrated online registration and payment system, making it easy and accessible for participants. This tech-forward approach helped build their reputation for professionalism.
That reputation opened the door to corporate collaborations, and today, Asunción Runners organises runs for major and small businesses, NGOs, embassies, and social campaigns. “We are known for being honest and reliable.
People know we do not cut corners, especially when it comes to safety,” Aníbal explains. “The costs for a top-tier ambulance on site we have covered ourselves, for example, to ensure safety. Because saving lives has no price tag.”
Race experts
Asunción Runners grew from a small club into a full-service race organiser, managing everything from planning to marketing. Aníbal highlights their US-based chip timing partner, long-time logistics collaborators, and commitment to quality medals and set-up. “Now, we focus on what we do best: organising safe, inclusive, and impactful races.”
Still, the heart of the mission remains the same: getting people moving. Even when foreign runners contact them today, they are often redirected to local teams if that better suits their goals.
“It is not about hoarding runners. It is about helping people find their place in the movement. We are not in this to be the biggest. We are in it to make a difference.”
International footsteps
Asunción Runners members are participating in marathons across the US, Europe, and South America. One standout is Marcelo Toyotoshi, who started with the group and went on to become the first Paraguayan to complete the six World Marathon Majors: New York, Boston, Chicago, London, Berlin, and Tokyo (now seven with Sydney).
His journey has inspired others to dream big and chase seemingly impossible goals. “It is different when you see someone just like you, your colleague, your friend – achieve something great,” Aníbal says. “That kind of example is powerful, because it shows anyone can do it, not just professionals.”
From running together to supporting each other
Asunción Runners continues organising its signature events, including Octubre Rosa (Pink October), a breast cancer awareness run that stands as their main social initiative. Aníbal and his team remain committed to the cause, managing a packed race calendar and sometimes having to decline invitations due to lack of time.
“People trust us. That is the real win,” he says. “They believe in our work because they have seen the effort and honesty behind it.”
Aníbal highlights how running levels social status, bringing together business leaders, artists, and workers on equal ground. He is especially inspired by athletes with prosthetics or visual impairments competing alongside guides in inclusive events held with the Paraguayan Federation for People with Disabilities.
“That is running for you. In those moments, we are all the same.”
People in Paraguay are increasingly embracing healthier lifestyles, and that growing interest has given rise to initiatives like Asunción’s Run Club, which is redefining how people spend their Sundays, mixing movement, connection, and community spirit.
Join the movement: The Good Run 2025
Next up on the calendar is The Good Run 2025, happening on Sunday, 3 August 2025, at Parque Ñu Guasu in Asunción (enter through Portón 2).
This 5K charity race, organised by Good Neighbours Paraguay, supports the right to recreation and sport, with proceeds going to improve the Polideportivo de Puerto Antequera in San Pedro. The upgraded facility will benefit over 4,000 community members with a safe space for sport, cultural, and recreational activities.
The registration fee is Gs. 160,000, which includes a Puma dry-fit T-shirt, a gift-filled backpack, and a commemorative medal.
“The Good Run represents everything we believe in: community, movement, and making a difference,” Aníbal concludes. “Come run with us.”
For more information check the Asunción Runners website.
