September Runner of the Month: Luis Orantes

Luis joined NBR this past year, attending his first run on May 3rd. “I was spending some months [in] the city and wanted to join a team to improve myself, run new routes and [get to] know people to have a whole great experience around my training.” Since joining NBR, Luis has been able to get faster and stronger all while enjoying running alongside some great teammates. He can be found regularly at many of the runs, afterwards hanging out with the group, and has recently become an elusive Crownimal!

What do you do when you're not running?

During weekdays I take care of my duties as a Chief of Staff at the Mexican Senate, on Saturdays I run a taco stand at Smorgasburg. Other than that, I love to visit museums, read novels, and follow the Mexican soccer league. 

How did you initially get into running?

My first runs were during the year I spent at Ithaca, NY, to explore the surroundings. I started doing it in a consistent way in summer 2019 after a breakup and I decided that was time to take a marathon out of the bucket list. I loved the process and decided was something I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

What is your favorite race distance?

Any distance equal or greater to 13 miles, I love the mental process involved during long runs.

Best running memory?

New Orleans marathon, my first marathon, felt like so many things happened for 4 hours when there are some days when nothing happens.

Favorite running route in NYC?

From McCarran Park to Central Park and back, there are so many different vibes along the way.

Any running-related superstitions?

I do have outfits for special occasions, some of them boosts my motivation before working out.

What has running taught you or changed about you?

Running taught me to have a mental order and that any problem in life can be solved with the appropriate approach. Taught me how to keep myself relaxed and to challenge myself constantly.

 
Favorite post-race food?

Chicken sandwich or pancakes depending on the time of the day and a liter of coconut water.

Favorite song to run to make you want to run?

Snow – Red Hot Chili Peppers

Favorite running social media account?

@luciebeatrix, I don’t know her personally but I love how she gives a style to running.

What do you think is the worst part about being a runner?

Having to explain your non-runner friends that you must leave early on weekends because you’re having a long run early.

Best advice to running newbies?

You’re not too slow, you’re just too new.

Current running goal?

Running an under 3:30 at the Philadelphia Marathon.

Any other fun running facts about you?
Whenever I feel like stop running, I ask to myself “What hurts?”. So far nothing has hurt.