Kai: Dedication is the Key

Kai is a 10th grader on the SRLA team at Harbor Teacher Prep Academy. He is currently training to run his second Los Angeles Marathon with Students Run LA.

Kai and his teammates from HTPA at the LA Dodgers Foundation 5K

SRLA has helped me in many ways. For example, in middle school, I wanted to lose weight through my own hard work. It helped me rediscover my love for running and concentration. When I run, it helps me concentrate because I am focused on the path ahead.

SRLA helped me with so many things. It gave me confidence in myself because I was able to run the marathon. So I want to challenge other things because I know that if I was able to do the impossible when I thought I couldn’t, I know I could do other challenges as well. 

Kai and a teammate relaxing after a run.

My goals for last year were to get a spot for SRLA and also finish the marathon. I was afraid of getting injured because if I did, I would have to skip multiple runs and might not be able to run anymore. When I got injured, I lost confidence, and I wanted to quit SRLA because my doctor said I couldn’t run for 3 weeks. This happened last year because I didn’t stretch well, and I tripped over a small pebble.

I was scared that I wouldn’t be able to run the marathon. I talked to my instructor and she told me to see a doctor if I had any problems with my leg. But I didn't give up overall, I stretched for an hour everyday and iced my legs. My instructor said time heals so give it a rest. I made my goal to run the marathon, and I did my best to recover.

What I learned after running the SRLA is never giving up is important and dedication is the key!

To support students like Kai and his piers at HTPA, consider making a donation at srla.org/donate