Rachel: The Coolest Feeling in the World
Rachel is a senior at Bell High School, she is now training with SRLA to complete her fifth marathon. Rachel shared some of her favorite memories and motivations from her time in Students Run LA.
What motivated you to join SRLA?
My mom encouraged me to run with SRLA in 8th grade, and I've done it every year since.
What is your favorite memory (so far!) from SRLA?
I simply cannot choose. But one instance that comes to mind is my 3rd marathon. It's around mile 6 near echo park and theres a chili dog station. I remember my mom telling me not to get one. I told her I'm going to tie my shoes and while my mom continues, I got one. My oh my, a chili dog has never tasted so good.
What has been your biggest challenge as an SRLA Runner? How did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge was trying to keep a constant pace. I didn’t have the motivation to keep a constant jog or a constant walk so I would lag behind my mom a bit. I now set small goals for myself along the route, such as running to every other stoplight.
What is one of your goals in SRLA?
My goal is complete 5 marathons. This year will be my 5th year with SRLA and I look forward to receiving a golden medal with "5" on it to show my 5th marathon. I also love to run to stay active.
What is something about SRLA that brings you joy?
Waking up at 3-5 am to get on a bus doesn’t seem that enjoyable, but when you get on the bus with your friends and drive to a race, it's the coolest feeling in the world. The crisp air when you step off the bus and the families and friends who come to the race to support us just warms my heart. I really do love seeing strangers support SRLA along the route, to know that some random person is willing to finish the last 2 miles with me during the marathon is absolutely mind blowing.
Anything else you'd like to share?
I've ran with my mom these past 5 years and we finish every race together. She has a playlist of music that she plays on a speaker to help keep our pace. I call ourselves the official unofficial 14 minute pacer. We've gotten comments throughout our runs on how our music helps them keep going.
Rapid Fire! A few more questions - just for fun…
Do you listen to music while you run? Music all the way!
Sidewalk or trails? Sidewalk
Water or sports drink? Sports Drink
One thing I can't run without is... My momma :)
My favorite place to run is... Downtown LA and Hollywood
Favorite post-run snack... Belvita sandwich - dark chocolate creme
The best part of every race is... Crossing the finish line with my mom :)
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