Community Voices: A Letter To Running From a First Time Marathon Runner

Community Voice: Susie

Crossing the Finish Line for the First Time

On March 16, 2025, I crossed the finish line of my very first marathon. As I crossed the finish line of the LA Marathon, tears welled up in my eyes—not just from exhaustion, but from overwhelming gratitude, pride, and a sense of something much deeper: I did it.

Running Through Motherhood

At 38, as a mother of two, this journey was anything but easy. Carving out time to train often meant waking up before the sun, running in the dark while the house still slept, and juggling miles with motherhood, work, and life. Some days, I questioned whether I could do it. But every step I took reminded me that I wasn’t just running for me—I was running to show my daughters what resilience looks like.

Inspiring the Next Generation

One of the most meaningful parts of this journey has been the example it’s set for my daughters. I want to be a role model for them, and seeing them cheering me on at mile 19 was the fuel I needed when I wanted to give up. In that moment, their tiny voices yelling, “Go Mama!” pushed me forward in a way no training plan ever could. And now, they ask me to go run with them. Sharing my love for running with them is truly a gift—something I never imagined would grow from this experience.

Finding Family in the Miles

The Running Mamis

I also know I could not have done this alone. I had the unwavering support of my incredible running group, Running Mamis, who carried me through every step of this journey. They were there for the early miles, the long ones, and the mentally tough moments when I wanted to give up. Their encouragement, their strength, and their joy are what kept me going. Over time, they became more than just running partners—they became my running family. We celebrated every mile, every breakthrough, and when I finally crossed that finish line, I carried their love and support with me.

Looking Ahead: A Family Affair

Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to share that my husband and my brothers-in-law will be joining me at next year’s LA Marathon, taking on their very first 26.2-mile challenge. I’m so excited for them to experience the incredible feeling of conquering a marathon—and it’s even more special that it will be the LA Marathon, a race that now holds a permanent place in my heart.

A New Chapter Begins

And me? I’ll be right there with them, running the marathon again—this time for the second time. Because that finish line didn’t mark the end. It marked a beginning. A new chapter of strength, community, and possibility.

Gratitude for the Journey

To the organizers, volunteers, and everyone who made this race possible: thank you. You didn’t just host a marathon—you helped create a moment that changed my life. I’ll forever carry the strength, pride, and joy I found on that course.

I came to the starting line hoping to finish.I crossed the finish line forever changed.

See you next year, LA.