{"id":3499,"date":"2019-07-23T11:52:04","date_gmt":"2019-07-23T16:52:04","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.new.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/?page_id=3499"},"modified":"2024-01-24T19:09:18","modified_gmt":"2024-01-25T01:09:18","slug":"albuquerque-fit-chapter-coaches","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/albuquerque-fit-chapter-coaches\/","title":{"rendered":"Albuquerque Fit – Coaches\/Organizers"},"content":{"rendered":"[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=\"USA FIT Albuquerque Coaches & Organizers\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:46px|text_align:left|color:%23105677|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_column_text]USA FIT Albuquerque coaches and organizers are ready to help you have a great training season! Get to know your coaches and organizers here![\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1563902637737{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"4215\" img_size=\"large\" alignment=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1704331904233{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/redbar.jpg?id=3317) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Noel Nix\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:26px|text_align:left|color:%23105677|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Half Marathon Coach\/Organizer\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:20px|text_align:left|color:%233a3a3a|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_separator color=\"custom\" align=\"align_left\" border_width=\"3\" el_width=\"20\" accent_color=\"#105677\"][vc_column_text]I started running in 2013 when it was the only PE class available in my last semester of college. I thought it was so hard and nearly failed the class. Soon after graduating, I decided to sign up for a 5k, then\u00a0a\u00a0half marathon, joined a\u00a0running club\u00a0and from there, my love for running ignited. Since then, I've run two full marathons, dozens of half marathons, and numerous 5ks and 10ks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nRead More<\/a><\/span>\n
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I joined USAFit when I moved to New Mexico from Texas in 2019.\u00a0<\/span>Through USAFit, I've not only hit new PRs but also gained lasting friendships. I have met some of my best friends through the group! My approach to running goes beyond just hitting time and distance goals; it's about having fun. In this group, if you're not having fun, you're missing the point. I want to help you reach your running goals\u00a0while enjoying every step.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>I believe that you get out of this group what you put into it. Let's lace up those shoes, set ambitious goals, and have some fun this season!<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=\"EMAIL NOEL\" style=\"classic\" shape=\"square\" color=\"black\" align=\"left\" link=\"url:mailto%3Anoel.usafitabq%40gmail.com||target:%20_blank|\"][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1563902631417{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"4217\" img_size=\"large\" alignment=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1704332327711{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/redbar.jpg?id=3317) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Lee Smith\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:26px|text_align:left|color:%23105677|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"10K Coach\/Organizer\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:20px|text_align:left|color:%233a3a3a|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_separator color=\"custom\" align=\"align_left\" border_width=\"3\" el_width=\"20\" accent_color=\"#105677\"][vc_column_text]I was raised in Albuquerque, NM and graduated from the University of New Mexico with a degree in Applied Mathematics.<\/p>\n

While I have lived in Albuquerque most of my life, there was a 12-year stint where I was trying to find myself and lived all over the Western U.S.\u00a0 I have been in the mortgage industry for the last 15 years and love what I do!<\/p>\n

I played sports growing up including high school football, wrestling and track.\u00a0 Because our high school football team was so bad and always in trouble, our coach made us run more than the cross-country team.\u00a0 That may be why I never pursued it. I found out much later in life that I actually enjoy running.<\/p>\nRead More<\/a><\/span>\n

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My wife (Barbara) and I joined USA Fit in 2020 and started training for a 10k.\u00a0 I found out quickly that I love longer distances \u2013 half and full-marathons.\u00a0 Because of the support and training from USA Fit, I was able to complete my first two marathons recently and plan on completing two more in 2024!\u00a0 I have been married to my amazing wife Barbara for 10-years and between us, we have three (3) awesome children.<\/p>\n<\/div>[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=\"EMAIL LEE\" style=\"classic\" shape=\"square\" color=\"black\" align=\"left\" link=\"url:mailto%3Alee.usafitabq%40gmail.com|||\"][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1563902631417{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"4164\" img_size=\"large\" alignment=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1655159866015{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/redbar.jpg?id=3317) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Kevin Aguimatang\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:26px|text_align:left|color:%23105677|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"5K & Beginner Coach\/Organizer\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:20px|text_align:left|color:%233a3a3a|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_separator color=\"custom\" align=\"align_left\" border_width=\"3\" el_width=\"20\" accent_color=\"#105677\"][vc_column_text]A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away\u2026<\/p>\n

Kevin had been convinced, through misguided social media posts, that running even farther would bring him happiness and enlightenment.<\/p>\n

Little did Kevin know that his goal of running a 50 miler was about to be tested by his love of drinking beer and eating sushi.[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=\"EMAIL KEVIN\" style=\"classic\" shape=\"square\" color=\"black\" align=\"left\" link=\"url:mailto%3Akevinsmissingshoe.usafitabq%40gmail.com|||\"][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1563902631417{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"4219\" img_size=\"large\" alignment=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1704332689749{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/redbar.jpg?id=3317) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Jaxine Dye\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:26px|text_align:left|color:%23105677|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Sponsorships\/Run Organizer\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:20px|text_align:left|color:%233a3a3a|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_separator color=\"custom\" align=\"align_left\" border_width=\"3\" el_width=\"20\" accent_color=\"#105677\"][vc_column_text]It was October 2009 when a co-worker told me she was training for a Rock n Roll Half Marathon in January 2010. My weight was toward its highest and I was motivated to lose some weight and improve my overall fitness. I told my co-worker I would train and run the half marathon with her. After all, who runs and doesn\u2019t lose some weight or improve their wellness?!<\/p>\n

And wouldn\u2019t you know it, my co-worker dropped out of training due to a back problem! I stayed with it though. Two weeks before race day, I ran the furthest I had ever run, a whopping 9 miles. I couldn\u2019t stop smiling (and grimacing each time I had to use the stairs). My brother signed up to support me, later admitting he was concerned about how I would do as I had no racing experience and very little training. It would be a first at that distance for both of us.<\/p>\nRead More<\/a><\/span>\n

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Race day came and pretty much the first half of the marathon was great. As we got further along, we began to feel the pain of what we had taken on. We would look at all the runners around us and say, these people are all amazing! Some were running strong, some were struggling, we admired them all. That first race was as exhilarating and grueling as it was memorable. I conquered something very difficult and I felt so elated for having done so. My sister-in-law was there to run the marathon as well. That is when I met her USAFIT ABQ running coach. Her performance in the marathon amazed me. I knew the coaching she received, the training program she followed and the comradery developed with her running friends elevated her as a runner. It was then I decided I would join USAFIT ABQ. Now the same is true for me.<\/p>\n

That first half marathon was a 2:43 finish. My road half marathon PR is 2:04 (ABQ Half) and my downhill half marathon PR is 1:56 (Revel Big Bear). In 2012, I ran my first full marathon in 5:53 (Duke City), 2 years later my second marathon finish time was 4:50 (Long Beach), a smashing improvement, then a year & 2 mos. after Long Beach, it was back to Tempe for the full marathon. It was my marathon PR day and I finished in 4:36 (Rock n Roll AZ).<\/p>\n

My goal with USAFIT ABQ is to share running knowledge acquired from experience, coaches and time with other runners which I hope will aid you in achieving your running goals this season. See you at the finish line!<\/p>\n<\/div>[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=\"EMAIL JAXINE\" style=\"classic\" shape=\"square\" color=\"black\" align=\"left\" link=\"url:mailto%3Ajaxine.usafitabq%40gmail.com|||\"][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1563902631417{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"4235\" img_size=\"large\" alignment=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1705283597458{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/redbar.jpg?id=3317) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Elizabeth Cochran\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:26px|text_align:left|color:%23105677|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Sponsorships\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:20px|text_align:left|color:%233a3a3a|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_separator color=\"custom\" align=\"align_left\" border_width=\"3\" el_width=\"20\" accent_color=\"#105677\"][vc_column_text]In this vast sport of running, my story stands out as a testament to spirit, willpower, and the power of community.<\/p>\n

My journey with USAFit Albuquerque began in 2018, marking the beginning of physical and spiritual transformations that would redefine my limits and aspirations. A failed attempt at a marathon in 2001 continued to trouble me over the years. While completing a half-marathon race did provide satisfying, the allure of a full-marathon event continued to gnaw at me. I realized I truly had the desire to conquer the daunting 26.2 miles.<\/p>\n

By chance, a friend mentioned she had a work colleague who acted as a pace coach in a running group. I went home thinking to myself: I cannot run with others. I don\u2019t know how to run. I am too slow. I cannot talk while running. I am a jogger, not a runner. Is there a jogging group I can join? That night, I
\nwent to sleep with all these thoughts running (pun intended!) through my mind. I was torn between lack of confidence to join a group and doubt in my ability to achieve my goal on my own.<\/p>\nRead More<\/a><\/span>\n

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The thought of the possibility of me actually running a full-marathon race was top of mind for two long days. After being unable to shake my curiosity, I delved into USAFit Albuquerque\u2019s online resources.<\/p>\n

The more I read, the more realizing the goal became reality. After scanning all of the coach\u2019s bios, there was Bob\u2019s! His genuine and upbeat bio particularly caught my eye, and without hesitation, I fired off an email to express my interest.<\/p>\n

In October 2018, eighteen years after my first attempt, I crossed the finish line at the Duke City Marathon. Two steps after receiving my finisher medal, with shallow breath, I uttered those infamous words, Never again.<\/em><\/p>\n

Little did I know these words would ring untrue as my journey with USAFit Albuquerque continued to evolve. The impact of the organization, not just in terms of fitness but also in fostering genuine friendships, kept me coming back for more.<\/p>\n

Since that pivotal moment, my running journey has taken me to new heights. I conquered Rock and Roll Marathons in iconic locations like Las Vegas (2019) and New Orleans (2020), each race marking a personal triumph over mental and physical challenges. The peak of my journey came in 2022 when I proudly completed the renowned Chicago Marathon. This was a testament to the outreach of USAFit Albuquerque coaches who supported and encouraged me out of a very bad slump, which almost kept me from the Chicago Marathon.<\/p>\n

As our amazing leaders, Bob and Vicky, have completed their amazing leadership of the USAFit Albuquerque group, I found myself at a crossroads. Do I leave the group - rather the family - and be content with all I gained? Or do I do what I can to keep it alive. In response to the need, with Jaxine Dye, I agreed to support the group\u2019s sponsorship relationships for 2024. While I humorously claim to have hung up my marathon shoes, the adage Never say never<\/em> resonates.<\/p>\n

My story is proof the finish line may just be the starting point for the next challenge in life: running or otherwise. Running with USAFit Albuquerque has brought me from a wannabe-marathoner to someone who has overcame obstacles, embraced community, and redefined limits. I want to inspire and help others find the courage to lace up their shoes and embark on their own transformative journeys.<\/p>\n<\/div>[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=\"EMAIL ELIZABETH\" style=\"classic\" shape=\"square\" color=\"black\" align=\"left\" link=\"url:mailto%3Aliz.usafitabq%40gmail.com|||\"][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1563902631417{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"4225\" img_size=\"large\" alignment=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1704392678257{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/redbar.jpg?id=3317) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Diana Bibeau\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:26px|text_align:left|color:%23105677|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Saturday Run Set Up\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:20px|text_align:left|color:%233a3a3a|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_separator color=\"custom\" align=\"align_left\" border_width=\"3\" el_width=\"20\" accent_color=\"#105677\"][vc_column_text]I am excited to be part of the new 2024 leadership team for USA Fit Albuquerque. I grew up in Corrales, but left New Mexico shortly after graduating from NMSU.<\/p>\n

After 35 years in TX, AZ, and Nashville, I\u2019m now back home. I started running in 1991 to pursue a healthy lifestyle. Little did I know the life changing journey running would take me on.<\/p>\n

Over the years, I have run hundreds of races from the 5K to marathons (126 marathons and at least one in each of the 50 states) and developed such a passion for the sport of running. I have met so many people and developed lifelong friendships through this running journey and want to share this passion with others of all abilities. The beauty of running and walking is that we meet people from all walks of life and develop a network of friendships. Look for me at the tent each Saturday during training seasons in 2024![\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=\"EMAIL DIANA\" style=\"classic\" shape=\"square\" color=\"black\" align=\"left\" link=\"url:mailto%3Adiana.usafitabq%40gmail.com|||\"][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1563902631417{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"4220\" img_size=\"large\" alignment=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1704392948043{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/redbar.jpg?id=3317) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Cindy Heredia\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:26px|text_align:left|color:%23105677|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Registration and Accounting\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:20px|text_align:left|color:%233a3a3a|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_separator color=\"custom\" align=\"align_left\" border_width=\"3\" el_width=\"20\" accent_color=\"#105677\"][vc_column_text]\n

In 2009 at the young age of 49, I created my own challenge, to run a Full Marathon on my 50th<\/sup>\u00a0birthday.\u00a0 It was only through this group that I found the encouragement and commitment from Coaches who truly wanted to see each person reach the Start line with excitement and injury free.<\/p>\n

I have been part of this group ever since. I am usually bringing in the end of the crowd with our slow and easy pace. This group teaches us that we are all different, but we can do it together. Each year brings on new adventures and new journeys.<\/p>\n

I have completed 23 Half Marathons and 4 Full Marathons.\u00a0 I\u2019m excited to meet you and help you on your own journey. Let\u2019s find that START line together and get across the FINISH LINE with the wonderful sense of accomplishment.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=\"EMAIL CINDY\" style=\"classic\" shape=\"square\" color=\"black\" align=\"left\" link=\"url:mailto%3Acindy.usafitabq%40gmail.com|||\"][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1563902631417{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"4218\" img_size=\"large\" alignment=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1704393394262{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/redbar.jpg?id=3317) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Juaquin Sanchez\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:26px|text_align:left|color:%23105677|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Graphic Design\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:20px|text_align:left|color:%233a3a3a|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_separator color=\"custom\" align=\"align_left\" border_width=\"3\" el_width=\"20\" accent_color=\"#105677\"][vc_column_text]\n

I am the Graphic Designer for USAFit Albuquerque and have designed graphics and t-shirts for the group for the past several years.<\/p>\n

My wife Dianne became a member in 2011 and she inspired me to run my first half Marathon and marathon. I joined the group in 2013 and since then I have run twelve half marathons, fifteen marathons and one 50k.<\/p>\n

USAFit, its coaches and members have helped me achieve running goals beyond my wildest dreams and I hope help others do the same.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=\"EMAIL JUAQUIN\" style=\"classic\" shape=\"square\" color=\"black\" align=\"left\" link=\"url:mailto%3Ajuaquin.usafitabq%40gmail.com|||\"][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1563902631417{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"4216\" img_size=\"large\" alignment=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1704393743993{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/redbar.jpg?id=3317) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Barbara Smith\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:26px|text_align:left|color:%23105677|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Equipment Storage\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:20px|text_align:left|color:%233a3a3a|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_separator color=\"custom\" align=\"align_left\" border_width=\"3\" el_width=\"20\" accent_color=\"#105677\"][vc_column_text]\n

Hey, I\u2019m Barbara. A mother, wife and wine lover. I was born and raised in Santa Fe and moved to Albuquerque to raise my daughter.<\/p>\n

I met my husband, Lee, in 2009 and together we have 3 children and now 3 fur babies.<\/p>\n

I never liked running but decided to join USA Fit in 2020 with Lee when we became empty nesters. Over the past 3 years, I have grown to enjoy running but truly love the social aspect. I quickly discovered distance running wasn\u2019t so bad. I followed the training schedule and ran a 5k, 10k, a half marathon, and then thought why not a marathon. I\u2019ve completed\u00a0 two marathons and am looking forward to many more.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=\"EMAIL BARBARA\" style=\"classic\" shape=\"square\" color=\"black\" align=\"left\" link=\"url:mailto%3Abarbara.usafitabq%40gmail.com|||\"][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1563902631417{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"4242\" img_size=\"large\" alignment=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1705284342398{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/redbar.jpg?id=3317) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Eliza Linde\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:26px|text_align:left|color:%23105677|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Banquet\/Event Planner\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:20px|text_align:left|color:%233a3a3a|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_separator color=\"custom\" align=\"align_left\" border_width=\"3\" el_width=\"20\" accent_color=\"#105677\"][vc_column_text]I had been a wanna-be runner for a long time. Over the years, I purchased all the appropriate clothes and accessories, all the shoes, all the various hydration systems, made kick-*ss playlists, and had energetic dogs as great running partners. And, I was the biggest fan and admirer of my friends who are runners. I ran regularly for a few weeks, or months, but would inevitably stop because my motivation fell off, or I got busy with other priorities (riding and racing mountain bikes), or -\u00a0like many over-enthusiastic, under-informed newbie runners, I would over-do it, and\u00a0get injured and sore.<\/p>\nRead More<\/a><\/span>\n

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That was my pattern for several years, until I heard about USAFit, and joined the Albuquerque group in the spring of 2022. Turns out, group accountability, supportive and motivating coaches, a welcoming and friendly community, a smart training plan, and paying a little money, all go a long way towards establishing a committed and healthy love of running!<\/p>\n

I initially engaged in running with ABQFit as cross-training to improve cardiovascular endurance for my mountain bike riding and racing. But I have since come to love and appreciate running - especially on local trails - as equally important to my health, fitness and quality of life. I have completed four half-marathons, two 12-mile trail runs, one 15-mile trail run, and one 10-mile\u00a0trail run so far, even getting onto the podium in my age group, and hitting PRs every time! I am registered for more races in 2024, and look forward to putting in the miles with my ABQFit friends!<\/p>\n<\/div>[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=\"EMAIL ELIZA\" style=\"classic\" shape=\"square\" color=\"black\" align=\"left\" link=\"url:mailto%3Aeliza.usafitabq%40gmail.com|||\"][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1563902631417{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"4245\" img_size=\"large\" alignment=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1705365575590{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/redbar.jpg?id=3317) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Amy Purcell\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:26px|text_align:left|color:%23105677|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Social Media\/Website\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:20px|text_align:left|color:%233a3a3a|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_separator color=\"custom\" align=\"align_left\" border_width=\"3\" el_width=\"20\" accent_color=\"#105677\"][vc_column_text]In 2000, after running only a few 5ks and 10ks, I decided to run a marathon. I had no idea if I could make the leap from 6.2 miles to 26.2, but I did it. Since then I've run seven more marathons, most of them in my hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio, and over 20 half marathons. I still love a fun 5k or 10k too. In Cincinnati's Queen Bee Half Marathon, I'm a \"streaker.\" (Don't panic, I keep my running shorts on. In running parlance that means I've run the race every year since its inception.)<\/p>\n

When my husband and I moved to Albuquerque in 2021, one of the first things I searched for was a running group and community. After exploring a couple of other groups in Albuquerque, I found a home with USA Fit Albuquerque. Since then, I've met some fabulous running pals and friends, and am grateful for the support and encouragement of this incredible group.<\/p>\nRead More<\/a><\/span>\n

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I love running for a variety of reasons. First, who doesn't love an excuse to buy more shoes? Second, I love the mental and physical challenge. Third, the commeraderie among fellow runners and walkers is unbeatable, There's also the joy at the start and finish lines of every race, and, of course, that shiny medal and sometimes a good craft beer or tasty burrito.<\/p>\n

Finally, for me, running heals. As a long hauler -- I'm not talking running mileage, I'm talking long Covid -- I am more grateful than ever to be back on the road after being sidelined for nearly a year. When I was at my sickest, the thought of being able to run again kept me motivated to overcome my symptoms. Additionally, my doctor and vestibular physical therapist both agreed that being a runner possibly contributed to me significantly shortening my long haul.<\/p>\n

Every run is a good run, in my opinion. And every run with USA Fit Albuquerque is even better!<\/p>\n<\/div>[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=\"EMAIL AMY\" style=\"classic\" shape=\"square\" color=\"black\" align=\"left\" link=\"url:mailto%3Aamy.usafitabq%40gmail.com|||\"][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=\"64px\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Want more information about USA FIT Albuquerque?\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:36px|text_align:center|color:%233a3a3a|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_btn title=\"CONTACT US\" style=\"classic\" shape=\"square\" color=\"black\" align=\"center\" link=\"url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.usafit.com%2Falbuquerquefit%2Falbuquerque-fit-contact-us%2F|title:USA%20Fit%20Contact%20Us|target:%20_blank|\"][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=\"USA FIT Albuquerque Coaches & Organizers\" font_container=\"tag:h2|font_size:46px|text_align:left|color:%23105677|line_height:2\" use_theme_fonts=\"yes\"][vc_column_text]USA FIT Albuquerque coaches and organizers are ready to help you have a great training season! Get to know your coaches and organizers here![\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1563902637737{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"4215\" img_size=\"large\" alignment=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1704331904233{background-image: url(http:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/redbar.jpg?id=3317) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: contain !important;}\"][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1\/2\"][vc_custom_heading text=\"Noel Nix\" […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"spay_email":""},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/P5tcG5-Ur","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3499"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3499"}],"version-history":[{"count":65,"href":"https:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3499\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4270,"href":"https:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3499\/revisions\/4270"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.usafit.com\/albuquerquefit\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3499"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}