What began as an effort to make friends after moving to New York has grown into a social-fitness network, attracting more than 30,000 attendees to its events in 2025. Founded by 27-year-old Owen Akhibi alongside his full-time job at JPMorgan, the club generated over $640,000 in revenue last year through ticketed parties and other activities, while keeping its regular runs free.
Akhibi launched Peak and Pace in 2024 after relocating from London to New York. Working in algorithmic trading sales at JPMorgan, he wanted to build a social circle beyond the city’s nightlife. The initiative gradually grew into a community that brings people together through running and social events.
The club does not charge participants for its regular runs. Instead, it earns most of its revenue through ticketed parties and organised activities, including hiking and ski trips. Akhibi began promoting the club through daily social media posts, attracting around 150 runners by its fifth session.
He later organised a party at a Manhattan bar, charging participants around $20 each. As the group expanded, its events grew to include DJs, food vendors and larger gatherings. Tickets typically cost between $15 and $25.
According to documents reviewed by CNBC Make It, Peak and Pace generated more than $640,000 in revenue in 2025, almost entirely from these events. Akhibi said the business operates at an overall profit margin of around 15 per cent. The earnings are reinvested into the venture rather than taken as an additional salary.
Running the club has also involved logistical challenges. During preparations for a 5K run and after-party on Governors Island, 18 trucks carrying supplies were left stranded in Manhattan after the scheduled ferry broke down on the morning before the event. With around 2,000 tickets sold, Akhibi spent hours coordinating with island officials to arrange an alternative boat. The final supplies, including around 30 portable toilets, arrived just as attendees began reaching the island.
Balancing the venture with his full-time job has been another challenge. Akhibi said he worked up to 18 hours a day for about a year while managing his professional responsibilities and the growing business. He also identified maintaining his mental well-being while handling competing demands as a key difficulty.
