Meet the Alumni: Damian!

Meet Damian! Damian ran on his school’s SRLA team at Legacy High School Complex in South Gate, CA. He has completed 3 marathons in 2016, 2017, and 2019.

MEET DAMIAN!

Do you have a favorite SRLA memory?

There are so many good memories but my favorite would probably have to be calling my dad during my first time running it I was at mile 19 and I FaceTimed him and he was so proud of me it gave me a boost to keep going.

Do you remember any specific challenges training as a student?

Some challenges I’d have to face was my footing my feet sometimes stick inward and I just had to get used to it besides that nothing much.

What are you doing now?

Currently I go to Cal State LA. I am a theater student with the option in design and production and I work at Home Depot I’m saving up to buy myself a car.

What lessons did you learn in SRLA that you still use today, if any?

To never give up care for one another and I learned how to be a mom by the way I care for my team.

Do you have any advice for current SRLA students, related to life and or running?

Running wise, I’d say never give up on yourself it’ll be hard at times but you will always push through and when you see a team mate slowing down cheer them on make sure you show them that you believe in them so they should believe in themselves. In life it won’t get easy it will get harder and harder but eventually all your accomplishments will pay off all you have to do is believe in yourself because at the end of the day your well being is what’s important.

RAPID FIRE!

A few more questions - just for fun!

Do you still run?

Occasionally, but I promise I will do another marathon in my life.

What was your favorite SRLA race?

I think my favorite SRLA race would have to be the universal studios back lot run but my all time favorite has to be the la puente Halloween run.

What did you have to have with you at every race?

My phone and ear buds that’s all I needed for myself

What SRLA gear (if any) do you still have?

I still have all my caps and my shoes that I got for free all the tank tops and I have a few of the SRLA t-shirts still I gave a few to my little sister since she’s also just now finished her first marathon

Is there anything else that you would like to share?

I love SRLA I hope some day I can come back and be a trainer or a lead.

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