Monumental Runner: Amanda Pinzon

Name: Amanda Pinzon

Self-described age group: 25-29

Residence: Washington, D.C.

Occupation: Public school teacher

Volunteer roles in the running world: Girls on the Run coach at my school!

Why you run: I run because it makes me feel powerful and makes me push myself. I’ve never been the most competitive person, but I do love setting new goals for myself. Even on days when I feel lazy, I finish my runs feeling happier, healthier, and fulfilled for the day.

When did you get started running: I started my freshman year of high school when I joined the cross country team. I had always enjoyed running the mile in middle school and felt like running was the only sport I felt comfortable doing. Spoiler alert, I threw up after my first practice. But it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. This is when my love of distance running began (back when I considered 5k distance!). That team holds a special place in my heart.

Have you taken a break from running: I’ve taken lots of breaks! I pretty much took a break during all four years of undergrad. I only went on the super-occasional three-mile run. After graduation, I decided to get back into it and signed up for my first half marathon. Since then, I’ve taken several long breaks between seasons. I was on a break practically all last year, but I’m getting back into it again.

Training shoe: Altra Intuitions

Coach or training group: I’ve been a solo runner up until now (besides high school), but I’m thinking of joining some local running groups.

The hardest race you’ve ever run: My first marathon- Rock ‘n’ Roll DC back in 2014. Minimal training. I knew marathons were hard, but I didn’t truly know. Rough times.

Most adventurous decision you’ve made with your running: I think I am currently making the decision. I’ve been super intimidated by my running dreams and aspirations, but I’ve finally decided to make a big goal and commit to some serious training. I’ve always been more of a laid back runner, so setting a serious plan is kind of nerve wracking!

Running mentors: My mother, who is the reason I decided to go for my first ever run. She reminds me to find the joy in it.

My favorite place to run in the D.C. area is:  The short trails along the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool.There’s something about those tree-lined trails that bring me peace.

Favorite local trail:  Rock Creek

My best race was: B&A Trail Half Marathon in 2015. Everything clicked.

Favorite local race: Parks Half Marathon- been running it for years!

Ideal post-run meal: Pizza. Lots of pizza.

Favorite flavor of gel, gu, etc: Vanilla bean gu

Pet peeve: People who walk/run shoulder to shoulder taking up the entire way and don’t move over, even when they know there are lots of other people coming and going.

Goals: To one day run Boston (dream big!)

Your advice for a new runner:  Don’t compare yourself to anyone. Be proud of your accomplishments and take it one step at a time. You’ll surprise yourself.

Favorite running book: What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami

Song in your head during a run: Depends on what I’ve been listening to.

Have you dealt with a major injury: Thankfully no, I have been lucky.

Running quote: “Run the mile you’re in”. Not very exciting, but it has been a mantra in past marathons.

Why is the D.C. area a great place to be a runner: There are so many places to see and races to participate in. You’re surrounded by like minded people and will have no problem finding a running group. I love being able to pass by monuments and sights during a typical run! Keeps things exciting!

Recent Stories

Derwood’s Lake Needwood helped Maggie Lloyd almost forget all about the summer misery and, somehow, the pandemic, for an hour or so.

Loudoun County’s map of unpaved roads led me to a beauty of a run north of Leesburg.

The sights, smells and open roads of the National Arboretum are open to runners nine hours a day.

Patuxent River Park in Upper Marlboro, Md. boasts more than 6,000 acres of nature trails and wildlife just ten miles off the Beltway. If you prefer a running soundtrack of croaking frogs…

3rd Annual APA MOORE Equity in Mental Health 5K Run,…

About APA’s MOORE Equity in Mental Health 5k
The APA’s Division of Diversity and Health Equity invites you to join us in combating mental health inequities facing young people of color and in honoring mental health advocate Bebe Moore Campbell.

Losing to Live 5K Walk/Run

WHEN Saturday, June 17, 2023 at 9:00 am WHERE This convenient location is just minutes from your house located 1/2 mile inside the 1-495 Capital Beltway at exit 51. Spectators are welcome to watch and cheer on the runners. Capital

×

Subscribe to our mailing list