July Runner of the Month | Belinda Ponce
When did you start running? In 2012 I started fast walking/slow running. In 2015, I started my real running regiment. I completed my first 5K January 1, 2015, The Commitment New Year’s Challenge, at Lifetime. I did horrible, and I was embarrassed. Right after that race, a friend ask if I would sign up to train for a Half Marathon. I decided to give it a shot and started a 12 week training program. I completed my first half marathon on March 22, 2015…… (FELT AMAZING) - The Dallas Rock N Roll Half Marathon.
Why did you start running? I started running for me. To be happy, to be healthy, to lose weight, to feel better about myself, to challenge myself every day, and to see how much faster I could get. Since 2015 I have accomplished 5K’s, 10K’s, 15K’s, Half Marathons, Marathons, 50K’s and 2 50 Mile races.
First race? My first race was Rock N Roll in March 22, 2015 – Half Marathon.
Most recent race? 2019 races: I helped pace: Cowtown Half, Blue Bonnet, Plano Half and Murphy Half.
Favorite piece of gear? My watch – Fenix 5 Plus
What shoes do you run in? Saucony Guide
Favorite way to cross train? I’m not a big cross trainer. The most cross training I do is stretching after a run, bike ride sometimes, walking my furry babies, arm weights and foam rolling.
Best running memory? My best running memory is finishing my first 50 Mile Race - May 5, 2018.
Bucket list race? My bucket list race would be either another Marathon or maybe a 100K
Favorite race so far? My favorite race was Hatchie 50 – 50 miles.
Do you have a favorite distance? My favorite distance is probably a Half Marathon
What is something that most people do not know about you? Most people don’t know that I do not know how to swim. Most people do not know that I like wine but only if taste like Kool-Aid.
Favorite tune to rock out to while running? A little bit of everything. Country Music.
Best part about running? The best part about running is the friendships that have come from it. I love working together with others to reach our goals. A long the way there has been so many laughs shared, hurdles overcome, and great memories made. Running has given me many things but the greatest gift has been the people that it’s brought into my life.
Who inspires you? Everyone that I run with inspires me. Knowing that we can all help each other to reach our goals.
What has been your biggest challenge so far? The biggest challenge so far was sticking with my training for 18 weeks for my 2st 50 Mile race and training for my 2nd marathon at the same time.
Any words of advice? Listen to your body, hydrate, & stop when your body tells you, “no more.”