Markus: Support and Motivation

Markus is a 9th grader at Alliance Tajima High School. Last year he completed his first LA Marathon with Students Run LA. He has returned for the 2022 - 2023 season to take on the marathon journey once again.

Markus celebrating with his medal from the Dodgers Sunset Run.

What motivated you to join SRLA?

What motivated me to join SRLA was my family. All their experiences and sacrifices motivate me to keep running and to not stop.

What is your favorite memory (so far!) from SRLA?

My favorite memory of SRLA so far was completing the marathon. The people cheering for you and receiving your medal when you cross the finish line was the best feeling ever. I felt that everything I had worked for towards the marathon was accomplished!

What has been your biggest challenge as an SRLA Runner? How did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge as an SRLA Runner was managing practices with homework and other clubs. I overcame this problem by communicating with my teachers and having to sacrifice a couple classes in order to be at my 100% during SRLA practices.

What is one of your goals in SRLA?

One of my goals in SRLA is running at 6-7 minute mile pace. But my main goal in SRLA is for others to look up to me and think of someone who went through a lot to get to where he is today.

What is something about SRLA that brings you joy?

Something about SRLA that brings me joy is being surrounded by people that motivate you when you are at your lowest and highest. My SRLA coaches were there when I had problems and supported me through them.

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

Do you listen to music while you run? Music all the way!

Sidewalk or trails? Trails

Water or sports drink? Water

One thing I can't run without is... Music!

My favorite place to run is... around my neighborhood.

Favorite post-run snack... is bananas!

The best part of every race is... Running in places I never knew existed. I loved seeing something different every race!

YOU CAN KEEP MARKUS AND HER TEAMMATES RUNNING

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