My First Marathon
I finally got to run The Bull Runner Marathon in 2025 (a race I’ve been dreaming about since 2018) and wow, it was one of the most humbling, painful, yet rewarding experiences of my life. In this episode, I share my entire marathon journey— how I trained, what went wrong, what went right, and what I learned along the way.
How did I start running?
For me, it started as a small goal running 5K on my 31st birthday. That little victory turned into a passion, and eventually into a decision: if not now, when? Running became more than just fitness. It became a way for me to build mental resilience and discipline, prove to myself that I could push through discomfort, and experience something I’ve been dreaming of for years. If you have a goal that scares you, it’s probably worth chasing.
My training plan
Training wasn’t easy. I ran about 3 times a week juggling schedules, family time, and mom life. Some days I was exhausted, some days I just didn’t want to show up, but I realized:
1. Consistency beats perfection
Even if I couldn’t run long, I ran short.
2. Accountability matters
Having a coach and a supportive husband made all the difference.
3. Discipline is key
You won’t always be motivated, but you can choose to be disciplined.
“Motherhood already requires so much of us. Running became my way to give back to myself. ”
What happened the day of my race…
The marathon humbled me in ways I didn’t expect. I aimed to finish in under 5 hours but crossed the line just under 6. The first half felt good, I was pacing well and enjoying the energy. The second half was brutal. My quads locked, the hills destroyed me, and I cried mid-run when I realized I wouldn’t hit my goal time. But I finished, and in that moment, I realized finishing strong mattered more than finishing fast. Sometimes, we have to let go of expectations and just celebrate the fact that we showed up.
What I learned from running 42K
1. Silence can be powerful
I trained with creating a running playlist but ran the race without it. Running in silence helped me connect with myself and the moment.
2. Let go of control
Not everything will go your way on race day. Focus on what you can do, and release the rest.
3. Community matters
The encouragement from my coach, fellow runners, and Juancho kept me moving when I wanted to quit.
4. It’s about the journey
The marathon isn’t just the race, it’s the months of discipline, sacrifice, and growth before crossing the finish line.
Will I do it again?
The marathon is a “30-kilometer warm-up to a 12-kilometer race.” The first 30K may feel manageable, but the final stretch tests your mind, body, and soul. For now, 21K is my favorite distance. It’s long enough to be challenging, short enough to still enjoy life after the finish line. Who knows? Maybe someday I’ll run another one and maybe even abroad. For now, I’m just grateful I finally crossed this dream off my list.
“Sometimes the finish line isn’t about your pace. It’s about the person you become along the way.”