Runner Spotlight:
At Run Malibu we are passionate about celebrating the everyday superheroes out there that make this world a better place because of their beliefs and values. Today we want to honor Guillermo Romero one of our amazing Legacy Runners.
Guillermo started running to get healthier. Having been dealing with Type 2 diabetes for over 15 years he decided, with the support of his wife of 31 years Martha, to embrace a healthier lifestyle and running seemed like a great option to them.
‘Living with Type 2 diabetes can be challenging at times’ says Guillermo. ‘Trying to find the right gel, recovery drink or meal that doesn't affect my health can be hard, but little by little I have learned what works for me and how to be healthy’.
“Running sets my mind free. It allows me to be healthier. Even on a bad day, I always feel better after a run. It is very therapeutic.”
We asked him what running means to him. “Running sets my mind free. It allows me to be healthier. Even on a bad day, I always feel better after a run. It is very therapeutic.”
Like for many of us, balancing life/work/running is not always easy. “My work day begins at 3:30 am so some days it is definitely a struggle, but I find a way to continue to be consistent and to make it happen.”
He manages to stay motivated and committed thanks to his running club, the Azusa Pacers. ‘They inspire me. I feel like they are all rooting for me and I don't want to let them down.”
They first joined the Whittier Pacers after Martha saw them running with their distinctive singlets and posting fun photos about it on social media. She wanted to join and convinced Guillermo to tag along. When Maria opened her new Pacer chapter in Azusa, they followed her.
"No matter what life throws at you, always stay positive, have faith in God and you will get through it.”
Fast forward to today, Guillermo is now a seasoned runner and has competed in many races.
He is also one of our amazing Malibu Legacy runners. “I enjoy the Malibu Half Marathon because of the beautiful and scenic route and it is always a lot of fun! It is very organized and all the swag is great too.”
The advice he gives his fellow runners/walkers is:
“Push yourself out the door the first day. Once you get a few runs in, you will fall in love with running! At the same time listen to your body. If you are hurt, don't push yourself. Allow your body to heal and then get back out there. No matter what life throws at you, always stay positive, have faith in God and you will get through it.”
Amen Guillermo, keep up your incredible work! 💜
Register BEFORE WE SELL OUT!
Join Hilda and the Whittier Pacers for the 14th Annual Malibu Half Marathon, 5K & 1/2K Kids’ Run. When you cross that finish line at Zuma Beach and hear the cheers from thousands of fellow runners and walkers, you’ll be glad you signed up!