My Marathon Journey: 10 years later!
As many of you know, I have a fascination with numbers. Every even-numbered year, I aim to achieve something epic, and every leap year, I strive for something prolific! This year, 2024, holds a special place in my heart as it marks the year I properly trained for a marathon and the 10th anniversary of Cheryl and I running our first marathon. Back then, my training was far from ideal, mainly consisting of bike rides and runs up to 10 miles. But this year, everything changed.
My Marathon Journey Since 2019
2019: This year was monumental as I embarked on an epic month-long honeymoon in Southeast Asia and joined the San Diego Track Club (SDTC), thanks to my friend @hansen. The experience of joining SDTC was transformative, introducing me to a vibrant running community and igniting my passion for running.
2020: Mom and I decided to train for a full marathon together, but then COVID-19 hit, disrupting our plans. Despite the setback, it was a prolific year in other ways. Little Mateo was born, bringing immense joy to our lives, and I began my journey at Drata. This year taught me resilience and adaptability, important qualities for both running and life.
2021: I fully embraced the start-up life at Drata, which came with its own set of challenges and rewards. Balancing work and training was tough, but it was a crucial period for personal and professional growth.
2022: Continuing my start-up journey at Drata, I managed to keep up with my training despite the demanding work schedule. This year was all about maintaining consistency and finding a balance between my professional commitments and personal goals.
2023: Mom and I signed up for the San Diego Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon. It was a fantastic experience, further solidifying our bond and passion for running. Training with her has always been special, and this year was no exception.
2024: The pinnacle of my marathon journey! This is the year for the Full San Diego Rock 'n' Roll Marathon. After years of preparation, setbacks, and perseverance, I finally felt ready to tackle this challenge head-on.
Gratitude to My Running Community
@sandiegotrackclub - A huge thank you to SDTC! Coach Paul is an amazing person who continuously motivates and encourages us to meet someone new at every meetup. Thanks to him, I've made some great friends and felt supported throughout my training. The entire SDTC community is fantastic, with many active volunteers who make every event memorable. Special thanks to Group C, and I’m proud to have moved to Group B in the last month of marathon training.
Mom: Madre, you’re a true inspiration! Your lifelong dedication to running has always amazed me. Sharing this journey with you has been incredible, and I cherish the quality time we’ve spent together. From struggling to keep up with you on my bike as a kid to running alongside you now, it’s been an unforgettable experience.
Cheryl: Thanks, beebs! Your unwavering support through all my epic and crazy endeavors means the world to me. I know it’s not always easy, but your encouragement is invaluable. Love you, and congratulations on your Mama’s Back Half Marathon this year!
Gaby: Sis, you did it! Completing your first marathon is a huge achievement, and I’m so proud of you. I hope you found it as inspiring and fulfilling as I did.
@nicole.active - My running and cycling buddy! Since 2020, you’ve been my partner in all the fun and accountability. Thanks for the countless runs, bike rides, and crazy photos. Your support has been instrumental in my journey.
New Friends and Acknowledgments
This marathon training season, I met some wonderful new friends who made the journey even more enjoyable. Thank you all for the fun runs and new friendships: @muaphi34, @orchid.tea, @sarah_van_buren_, @janessa_finley_, @danielsmith619, Carl, Andy, Luu, Fergison, Raul, Ray, Uyen.
Special shout out to @hansen: Gracias, my old-bearded amigo! Your transformation and current lifestyle are truly inspiring. Thank you for introducing me to this amazing running culture and SDTC. Watching you crush Boston was incredible!
Looking Forward
Training for this marathon has been an incredible journey, filled with support, inspiration, and new friendships. Each year brought its own set of challenges and triumphs, shaping me into the runner I am today. As I look forward to the Full San Diego Rock 'n' Roll Marathon, I am grateful for the experiences and people who have been part of this journey. Here’s to many more epic and prolific years ahead!
