All About Jacob
All About Jacob
California State University of Long Beach, Sophomore
Loves to Run: 5k-Marathon
How did you start running?
My sophomore year of high school, I was a jumper on the track team. Jumping into a pit three times was my first sport.
I enjoyed running longer distances, two laps around the track. All of my friends on the track team were running cross-country. After my first year of running long distance, I joined cross-country. We were running 8-10 mile days.
How did you become a road racer?
I wanted to do something more with running, and researched races on the computer.
The first race I signed up for was a 5k. Overall, I finished as second in my age group with a time under twenty minutes. I never thought that I could do something like that before. Afterwards, I felt so good about myself and kept running.
How was your first marathon?
Last February, I competed in the Surf City Marathon.
It was really great because I did the half-marathon first. Running along the ocean feels nice and cool. The course takes you on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). I felt like I could keep going all 26.2 miles. My goal was to finish in under four hours, and my finishing time was 3:42!
Have you experienced obstacles in your running career?
In the Surf City Marathon, I injured my knee and it took me out for at least five weeks.
I took up running and biking, it was a good supplement. After finally recovering, I am back to running sub 7:30 miles.
What is your favorite running memory?
When I crossed the finish-line of my first half-marathon, the Long Beach Half-Marathon 2014.
I was running these long stretches thinking, “Can I do this? Can I do this?” When I crossed the finish-line it felt so great. I was thinking, “Wow I did it!”
What is your favorite race?
The Disney Land Half-Marathon, here in California.
Runners run all the way to Angel Stadium and back to Disney. Everyone there running, volunteering and in the crowd were really motivating.
Do you have Disney Running goals for the future?
I am training for the Dopey Challenge in Disney World, January 2017!
The Dopey Challenge, is a four day race around Disney World. In the challenge there is a 5k, 10k, half-marathon and full-marathon.
The Dopey Challenge totals to 48.6 miles and 6 medals!!! This is my dream race. I am very excited!
Who is your favorite Disney character?
Sorcerer Mickey!
What is a typical week of training like for you?
50-70 miles a week!
Where are your favorite places to run?
The San Gabriel River Bend. I like running on the beach, especially Long Beach Path.
What is your favorite running apparel?
I like running shirts from races, especially Surf City.
What type of sneakers do you wear?
Hoka One One’s. They have lots of support and are light blue.
Do you have a motto?
Fear No Distance.
Do you have advice for other runners?
Smile through life. If you can endure harsh training you can get through anything. Stay positive and optimistic, even when times are hard.
Check out Jacob's Blog!
http://www.nicerunnerguy97.wordpress.com
Follow Jacob on social media!
Photography, courtesy of Jacob Abrego.
That Pretty Runner