The Following are running for the 2026-2027 BCRR Board
Statements submitted by candidates themselves are enclosed in quotation marks. Other bios written by the management.
President: Steve Hasson (current incumbent VP)
"I have been running marathons since 1991, and I have been a member of Bayou City Roadrunners since 2001. For the last 5 years I have been participating on the BCRR Board, first as Secretary, and for the last two years as Vice President. I enjoy fundraising and volunteering for the Houston Food Bank and have done so for the last 25 years. I have been married to Karen for the last 18 years, and between us we have 6 kids, and 6 grandkids. Finally, I am a Mechanical Engineer, and an Engineering Manager for Wurth Industry USA. Can I interest you in a cupcake?"
"I have been running marathons since 1991, and I have been a member of Bayou City Roadrunners since 2001. For the last 5 years I have been participating on the BCRR Board, first as Secretary, and for the last two years as Vice President. I enjoy fundraising and volunteering for the Houston Food Bank and have done so for the last 25 years. I have been married to Karen for the last 18 years, and between us we have 6 kids, and 6 grandkids. Finally, I am a Mechanical Engineer, and an Engineering Manager for Wurth Industry USA. Can I interest you in a cupcake?"
Vice President: Anna Helm (current incumbent At-Large)
Anna has been an active member of BCRR for many years. She is a teacher, an avid, competitive runner, and a living kidney donor. Anna served as president of HARRA for several years, co-organizes the Tour de Bayou Cross Country race series for HARRA, and has served as an At-Large Member on the BCRR Board for the last 3 years.
Treasurer: Kavi Kulkarni
"I’ve been running since middle school, and no matter where I’ve lived, the running community has always been there to welcome me. I’d like to give back to that community, and to the club that has welcomed me so readily, which is why I'm running for treasurer. I work as a CPA during the day, so I have plenty of experience in counting beans. While the field isn't exactly competitive, I'd love to have your vote!"
Secretary: Karina Yonekawa-Blest
"I've been a member of Bayou City Road Runners for two years and am eager to contribute as Secretary. I bring deep experience in nonprofit board service: I've served on the Houston Masters board, helped plan and execute the 25K race, and served on the Houston Striders board in scholarships and governance — including leading their bylaws revision. I currently serve as President of Friends of Fonde Park and Board Secretary for Care and Prepare, and regularly help local nonprofits with governance and policy work.
I'd love to bring that same commitment to BCRR."
Member At-Large Candidates
Member At-Large: Joel DuBois (current incumbent)
Joel is a long-time member of BCRR and has served as a Member-at-Large for the past 6.5 years. A dedicated and omnipresent volunteer, he plays a key role in supporting the operations of both BCRR and HARRA. He consistently steps up wherever needed—whether that’s helping at the Boatshed loading and unloading equipment, procuring and transporting beer for events, or supporting race committees and race management (Alex's 5k, Bayou City Classic, Houston Marathon, etc). He manages a water stop/Hoopla station on the Marathon course. He also co-organizes the Tour de Bayou Cross Country Series, contributing significantly to its continued success.
Member At-Large: Mirna Chang
"Mirna is a familiar and uplifting presence in Houston’s running community and a proud member of the Bayou City Road Runners. Known for her positive energy, consistency, and supportive spirit, she brings people together both on and off the race course. Whether celebrating teammates, cheering runners to the finish line, or representing the club at local races and events, Mirna embodies the camaraderie and community that make Houston running special. She also loves capturing great moments and taking pictures that turn races, friendships, and celebrations into lasting memories for everyone around her."
Member At Large: Susan Cita (past board member)
Susan is another candidate who needs no introduction. A long time member, Susan is known for her volunteerism and keen organizational skills, as well as for her commitment to the Houston running community. She served on the BCRR Board previously and currently serves on the HARRA Board as Social Chair. (She will be leaving that position to concentrate on BCRR!) Susan is also heavily involved in volunteering for the Houston Marathon: she organizes the water stops and is the force that powers the epic BCRR Hoopla Station.
Member At-Large: Jamie Lopez
"I am a native Houstonian, a full-time English professor at Houston City College, and someone who genuinely believes running can change lives. After 21 years in education, I’ve learned that people need community just as much as they need goals, and running somehow provides both.
I started running alone in 2020 when a parent was critically ill with COVID and on a ventilator. Running became my way of coping with stress and grief while also giving me a sense of purpose during difficult times. Along the way, I discovered how running can connect people to causes that deeply matter to them. Seeing races and organizations support issues such as ethical treatment of animals, cancer prevention, and community health initiatives has been inspiring and is something I would love to continue promoting.
I’ve run the Houston Marathon five times and value the tradition of making Houston a welcoming running community for runners of all levels. Running has strengthened my discipline and resilience, and I’d love the opportunity to give back to a sport that has become such an important part of my life."
