Tuesday, February 17, 2015

The Friendship Run 3x in a Row

Diana, 3 years in SRLA – Camino Nuevo High School #2

The Friendship Run is probably one of the most challenging races from the SRLA season. This past Sunday was my third time running the Friendship Run. Over the past years, I could see myself improve not only physically, but mentally.  

Before the race, I was so anxious, just like any other runner who's about to run a race. I've been running at Hansen Dam for my weekend runs – of course I felt prepared! Well, that's what my mind wanted me to know during those weekend runs. However, when it came to race day: "What will the route look like?" As I got out of the bus, I went to stretch. Then I got my phone ready to listen to music, and then I went out on the course!

"If I finished this race two times, I'm pretty sure I can finish this for my third time." That was my only motivational saying of mine. When I felt like walking, I would time myself for 15 seconds and start running again. That worked for the most part, but I was in pain. The pain didn't stop me from finishing that race. Thankfully, there were many SRLA volunteers, and parents who helped me and everyone else out. We wouldn't have done it if it wasn't for them. When I entered inside the Dam, I got this relaxing sensation: fresh air, nice view, flat surface. That was my favorite part of the course!

As I got closer to the Finish Line, I got excited; excited because I would finish, because I would finally get the chance to rest, and because I knew that I could proudly go home to my family and tell them that I did it. As I crossed the Finish Line, I saw Mr. Ikeda, my English teacher. He congratulated me and asked me how I felt. It came to the point that I was about to cry. 

As a Friendship Race finisher for the third time, and about to be a marathon finisher for the third time, I can say that SRLA has helped me a lot in overcoming different obstacles. I would like to thank all SRLA volunteers because of you we wouldn't have finished this challenging race. I would also like to thank my coaches: Ms. DQ, Ms. Ramirez, Mr. Ikeda, and Mr. DLC for all of your dedication in helping us to finish strong. Thank you! 

Now I guess you might know what my marathon saying for next month will be... 

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