Victory Lap was built for runners who want to train with purpose, improve over time, and feel confident in the process — whether they’re preparing for their first marathon or working toward a new personal best.

Most runners don’t need more motivation. They need clarity, structure, and guidance they can trust. Victory Lap provides thoughtful, performance-minded coaching designed to help runners train intelligently, stay healthy, and build consistency for the long term.

Based in the North Houston area, Texas, Victory Lap serves adult runners training for the 5K, half marathon, and marathon, while also supporting youth and high school athletes through a long-term development lens.

About Victory Lap

Meet the Coach

Ryan Dohner

Ryan Dohner is a former professional runner, Houston native, and experienced coach with nearly a decade of coaching experience across collegiate, youth, and adult levels.

Ryan grew up in a true running household and developed his passion for the sport under the guidance of his father, George Dohner. He went on to compete at the highest levels of collegiate and professional running, training under respected coaches at The University of Texas at Austin and later as a professional with NAZ Elite in Flagstaff, Arizona. Ryan also attributes much of his knowledge and approach to his former HS and professional coach, Steve Magness.

While Ryan’s competitive background includes elite racing, his coaching today focuses on helping adult runners of all abilities train smarter and progress with confidence — especially runners balancing work, family, and training.

Who Victory Lap works with

Victory Lap works with adult runners who want to improve and train with intention — from first-time marathoners to experienced runners chasing new goals. The common thread is a commitment to consistency, health, and long-term progress.

Local athletes also have the opportunity to join optional weekly workouts and Saturday long runs designed to complement their training, build accountability, and strengthen community.

Youth and high school athletes are supported through thoughtful, supplemental coaching that prioritizes development and longevity

Two men smiling and standing outdoors in front of a building with a sign that says 'Welcome to the NRG Stadium'. One man is dressed in athletic gear with a medal and a blue bag, suggesting he has just finished a race. The other man is wearing a navy jacket with an American flag patch. They are posing together, with traffic lights and trees visible in the background.

Experience and Approach

Ryan has spent seven years as a head collegiate track and cross country coach, developing athletes within structured training environments focused on consistency, progression, and long-term health.

In addition to collegiate coaching, Ryan has worked extensively with adult runners preparing for road races and marathons, helping many achieve personal bests and Boston Marathon qualifying performances. This experience informs Victory Lap’s coaching philosophy: proven training principles applied in a way that fits real life.

Background & Experience

  • Former professional runner: 5k- 13:45,10k -28:19, 1/2 Marathon - 62:43

  • 3× NCAA All-American

  • Seven years as a head collegiate track & cross country coach

  • Over nine years of total coaching experience

  • Coached numerous runners to personal bests and Boston Marathon qualifying performances

Group of male runners participating in a road race, wearing athletic gear and bib numbers, with trees and other runners in the background.