January Runner of the Month: Lucia Cordon
Lucia joined NBR in early summer of 2021. “My first NBR run was a MMER and then the diversity run we did with Front Runners to Central Park. I loved that we collaborated with other clubs, that there was a culture of diversity, inclusion and social responsibility.” When she started attending more runs, she was excited by how welcoming her NBR teammates were. “People I had recently met would ask about things I had mentioned in passing (injuries, goals, etc.) and they were excited that I kept showing up. I felt like I had found a community.” Although she lives in downtown Brooklyn, you can find Lucia as one of our Sunday Funday Run Leaders, at many of our Community Outreach events, as well as helping coordinate post-running social gatherings like post-Plyo drinks on Monday.
What do you do when you're not running?
I like all outdoor things so hiking, kayaking, etc. I work at a pharmaceutical company in “market access” which means I work with country teams, governments, NGOs and other groups to improve access to medical treatments and vaccines. I travel quite a bit for work so running has been a great way to explore new cities.
How did you initially get into running?
I danced ballet in Guatemala from 5-18 years and then realized I had to cut down hours spent dancing and focus on school if I wanted to get into university in the US. I started running at leisure in Boston while in college and then continued in NY but I missed the competitiveness and structure of ballet. My first try at competitive running was with NBR this year.
What is your favorite race distance?
This is a difficult one because I don’t have a trajectory in racing. I basically went from 0 - 100 and trained for the NY Marathon. The marathon is a mental challenge, that I can say. At some point during the race you have to make a decision about how much mental strength you’ve got. I’m excited to test new boundaries by racing 5/10Ks and a half in the spring and then have a second go at a marathon in Fall. It’s been interesting training for shorter distances at speed because I keep telling myself — there’s no way I can keep this pace for 6 miles! (But then again I said the same before the marathon)
Best running memory?
I’ve had so many with the Sunday funday group. I told myself before the NY Marathon that the marathon was a celebration of all the good times we had over the summer. I’m very grateful. We went to rockaway beach a few times and jumped into the ocean, we ran trails in highland park, we explored Randall’s island and hellgate, we ran to Rockefeller center and saw cultural exhibits - it’s hard to choose one.
Favorite running route in NYC?
Hellgate is pretty special. I live downtown so I usually do the PP loop or Brooklyn bridge park route but having a destination to explore with friends is magic.
Any running-related superstitions?
Not yet but we’ll see what transpires once I start racing more.
What has running taught you or changed about you?
You are capable of more than you think. Put the work in and trust the process.
Favorite post-race food?
Beer? Not technically food but some would argue…
Favorite song to run to make you want to run?
I have a few house/techno playlists although you have to get creative with music once you start running + 8 hours per week!
Favorite running social media account?
I really like Peter Bromka’s writing - if you’re a marathoner or just trying to figure out why crazy people love the distance, I suggest you read his “the marathon doesn’t owe you anything” piece on medium.
What do you think is the worst part about being a runner?
The discipline and patience that comes with the work. Sometimes you don’t understand why you have to put in the mileage every week, why you can’t have that extra beer that night, why you can’t miss a workout when you’re sore, why you’re cranky as hell. Why it’s actually important to do your recovery runs at recovery pace! You’re tired, you’re committed and it will come full circle, I promise.
Best advice to running newbies?
Read my previous response, but also - come run with NBR. It doesn’t matter if you’re faster, slower or just in it for the beers. We’re a good group and we won’t disappoint.
Current running goal?
I recently started running with a coach. I barely made it to the NY Marathon start line (anemia and knee injury) and wish I had more guidance on my training. I was able to get my goal of running my first marathon in under 4 hours so this year I get to try different distances and train properly to see what is possible on my next go at 26.2. For now, I’m working on form and learning how to push myself without getting injured.
Any other fun running facts about you?
Big fan of post-run beers (I may have already said that!)
