Malicka: Stronger Than I Think
Malicka is a 9th grader at Venice High School. She has faced great and unique challenges on her journey to the marathon, but she never gave up. Malicka will be completing her first Marathon with SRLA this Sunday, March 20th. Here is Malicka’s story, in her own words…
My heart condition inspired me to join SRLA. I didn’t want it to restrict me from doing everyday activities, so I wanted to try something new and different. I had always been insecure about running because of my heart condition. I couldn’t be like everyone else because I had to slow down sooner. But this year, I felt an overwhelming urge to put myself out there in the unknown and see how it goes. I have no regrets. Even though during this SRlA season I have been at my low, I secretly love every moment of it.
My biggest challenge is probably getting into the mental state that I can finish the race. Physically to a certain extent, the pain is bearable, but mentally sometimes I have doubted myself and my capabilities. Another challenge is staying motivated, even though I see a lot of people passing me. I need to work on being confident in myself and not comparing myself to others.
“My biggest accomplishment this season is never giving up on any of my runs. That is my biggest flex.”
My biggest accomplishment this season is never giving up on any of my runs. That is my biggest flex. Even though I’m complaining, I’m crying, and in pain, I always pull it out and finish my run. Another accomplishment is completing 21 miles with a heart condition, I didn’t use my inhaler and I was fine.
I have learned from marathon training that I’m stronger than I think I am. I’ve learned to accept my situation for what it is and work with it. In addition, I’ve learned the emphasis that nothing lasts forever, that the pain will eventually go away.
I feel anxious running the marathon in March. I want everything to go well and perfectly, but that is not always reality. I’m going to lay all my cards out there, do my best, and hope everything goes well.
YOU CAN SUPPORT MALICKA AND HER TEAMMATES
Learn more about our programs to get involved. Donate, volunteer, or sponsor our students to make a difference with SRLA.