Carl: A Second Family

Meet Carl, a senior at Polytechnic High School, who is participating in SRLA for the first time this school year. Carl shared his perspective with us in this week's blog.

What motivated you to join SRLA?

I joined SRLA as I found it as a way to get out of my comfort zone, while getting to know others through the process of enhancing oneself's mental fortitude and physical fitness. I also found it to be beneficial towards becoming one with myself and learning when to push harder and when to slow things down for inner peace.

What is your favorite moment from SRLA?

My favorite moment of SRLA would be whenever we are gathered, whether it be just talking or simply stretching as a group.

What has been your biggest challenge as an SRLA Runner? How did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge that I and others face upon joining SRLA would be time management towards our school work and social life like going out with friends or family. While this is a downside, it’s also an upside as our running troupe has become a secondary family, where everyone can depend on one another and strive towards a unified goal.

What is one of your goals in SRLA?

One of my goals in SRLA would be running the LA marathon, alongside making running a daily habit that would better my fitness in the years to come.

What is something you've learned as a part of SRLA?

Through SRLA I learned to focus on myself and listen to my body rather than constantly comparing my progress to others and straining myself trying to catch up to others when it’s unnecessary.

What is something about SRLA that brings you joy?

I am glad to say that running has become my newfound joy and knowing that I am not alone through the struggles that we face.

Rapid Fire! A few more questions - just for fun…

Favorite song to listen to while running? I wouldn’t say that I have a favorite song to listen to, but anything upbeat usually helps me push the pace at a comfortable effort.

Favorite place to run? My favorite place to run is at the park.

Best thing to drink while running? Anything with electrolytes would be good to drink while running. I also enjoy drinking some coffee before a long run.

One thing I can't run without is... One thing I can’t run without is my phone as it tracks my distance while allowing myself to listen to music or take pictures during a scenic route.

Favorite post-run snack is... Salads or a burrito are the best post-run snack.

The best part of every race is... The best parts of the race would be the overwhelming source of energy that comes from the people from the beginning and end of a race. The fact that we sustain the same level of excitement for all finishers is truly outstanding.

YOU CAN HELP STUDENTS LIKE CARL FIND A SECOND FAMILY

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