You might say that running is an inherent part of teenager Stacie Mayorga’s genetic makeup, even though it has presented challenges.
Both her mother and uncle engaged in running during their youth. This Sunday, March 17, the 16-year-old from North Hollywood is gearing up to finish her second L.A. Marathon.
Mayorga is among more than 3,000 students hailing from various regions such as the San Fernando Valley, coastal areas like San Pedro, and inland locales including San Bernardino County. These students are participating in the marathon as members of Students Run LA (SRLA), a nonprofit organization that provides complimentary marathon training programs and mentorship to students in approximately 200 public schools.
San Pedro High School senior John Solis will be pursuing another medal as he embarks on his third L.A. Marathon this upcoming Sunday. Solis, captured in a photo on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, is an integral part of Students Run LA. (Photo by Brittany Murray, Press-Telegram/SCNG)
Despite admiring her family members, Mayorga initially struggled with running. Now a junior at Polytechnic High School in Sun Valley, Mayorga vividly remembers the challenge of running even a single mile when she first attempted it in gym class.
Nevertheless, she made the decision to join Students Run LA.
“I find the entire training process fascinating. Witnessing my pace and overall well-being improve is truly rewarding,” shared Mayorga.
Mayorga admitted to moments of self-doubt regarding her capability to complete lengthy races, let alone a marathon. During her first L.A. Marathon last year, she encountered difficulties after reaching the 18-mile mark. Her mother stood by, cheering her on, as Mayorga found herself in tears.
“I began to realize, ‘Wow, I still have 8 more miles to go,’” she recounted. Despite this, she persevered. “Upon crossing that finish line, I was overwhelmed with happiness after running for over seven hours. … I couldn’t wait to return home and display my medal to my family.”
Evelin Fuentes, Mayorga’s mother, emphasized that she never pressured her daughter to join Students Run LA. When Mayorga revealed that her mother’s past involvement in the program inspired her to join, Fuentes was moved to tears.
Fuentes expressed pride in her daughter’s determination to challenge herself.
“Now she understands that she can achieve more – she can pursue her desires. She exudes more confidence,” Fuentes remarked. “Additionally, she is forming numerous friendships and expanding her social circle through SRLA.”
Students Run LA aims to provide assistance to historically underserved students.
Over 95% of SRLA students who participate in the L.A. Marathon successfully complete it, with over 95% of seniors in the program graduating from high school with aspirations for higher education. Among these students, three-quarters are the first in their families to pursue further education, as per the organization’s data. Over the past 35 years, the organization has trained more than 75,000 student runners.
The volunteer coaches, often teachers, run alongside their students on race day.
While Students Run LA primarily focuses on preparing students for marathons, its objectives extend beyond mere physical training.
Alberto Alvarez Estrada, who mentors SRLA students at San Pedro High School in L.A.’s Harbor community, highlighted that Students Run LA emphasizes teaching essential life skills such as goal-setting and perseverance. The program prioritizes students crossing the finish line over the time taken to complete the race.
“These students aren’t typically cross-country runners,” he noted. “They are ordinary students who learn about the program and are inspired to give it their all. Many of them later realize, ‘Hey, I can do this. I can pursue higher education. I can accomplish anything.’”
Eighteen-year-old San Pedro High senior Damian Mendoza is gearing up for his fourth L.A. Marathon this weekend. He initially joined SRLA at his mother’s encouragement, seeking new experiences. Mendoza finds motivation in continually enhancing himself and forging friendships with peers beyond his usual social circle.
Apart from marathon training, Mendoza dedicates around 18 hours per week to work, supporting his family, and participates in his school’s tennis team. Balancing these responsibilities can be stressful, but Mendoza turns to running as a coping mechanism.
“Running helps alleviate stress, particularly in managing work and school. It has significantly aided in diverting my mind from excessive worrying,” shared Mendoza, who is contemplating vocational school post-graduation to pursue a career as an auto mechanic.
Mendoza attributes Students Run LA to guiding him in setting life goals.
“The program has molded me into the person I am today, encouraging me to strive for excellence and pursue my aspirations,” he affirmed.
Similar narratives of resilience and perseverance resonate in the Inland Empire.
At Carter High School in Rialto, 16-year-old junior Joanna Ruiz is gearing up for her third L.A. Marathon. Her interest in running sparked after observing her brother, who is 11 years her senior, participate in SRLA. Presently, her brother contributes as a coach in the school’s Students Run LA initiative.
Joanna Ruiz emphasized that her most significant lesson is learning not to give up “even when faced with challenges and the temptation to quit – it’s about maintaining mental fortitude.”
Her brother, Hector Ruiz, highlighted the program’s emphasis on commitment, with training commencing as early as August or September.
“It builds character. It’s tough. Regardless of how prepared you are, you will encounter obstacles, and it becomes a mental battle,” he explained regarding marathon running.
Hector Ruiz, who also serves as a substitute teacher, underscored that the values instilled in marathon runners align with those emphasized in educational settings.
“In school, you learn to persevere through difficulties,” he noted.