Erick: Achieving the Unachievable

My name is Erick and I am currently 16 years old, a junior, and a SRLA participant at Sherman Oaks Center for Enriched Studies or SOCES. This is my fourth year running with SRLA and my experience with the program has been more than I could ever ask for. I come from a loving family of Mexican heritage and a shared passion for running.

When I reached 8th grade, SOCES, my middle school, offered SRLA to me. I signed up with motivation from all and since then my life has never been the same. The program provided me an escape to a world in which I need not worry about anything except my legs and the long winding road ahead of me. After 8th grade, I joined the high school cross country team where I grew even more in love with the sport. Today, I not only run because I enjoy it but also because I plan to pursue running during college and possibly as a profession. No words can describe the adrenaline of the start and the glorious feeling at the end when you have reached your goals.

Contrary to many beliefs, I really enjoy the Friendship Run because it's nice to run on the dam after having all our races on the street. The morning was quite cold but the wonderful view that the dam provides us was enjoyable and worth running for.

This upcoming Marathon is one I am excited about because my goal is to do a sub-4 hour time, my best being 4:08. I feel more prepared than last year and I know that if I succeed I will feel happy that once again, I have achieved the unachievable.

Click here to make a donation to support Erick and his teammates as they achieve the unachievable.