Our 2025 LA Marathon training season officially kicked off on Saturday, September 14! Over the next few weeks, we will continue to introduce our awesome LA Marathon Pace Leaders as well as our Marathon Coach. Find out why they run and some fun facts that could spark a conversation during your next group run! This week, we meet Rand and Erika, our Pace Leaders for our 14 Minute Pace Group!
Name: Rand Smith
Which group do you run with? Team 14!
How long have you been with the Pasadena Pacers? Since 2020
How many marathons have you run? 20. The 2025 LA Marathon will be my 14th consecutive!
Why do you run? I love to run!
Favorite post run snack/meal? I eat everything.
Occupation: Physical Therapist (PT, PhD)
Hometown: West Hollywood
What do you do for fun? Run!
Do you have a secret talent? (Please share): Many!
Anything else you’d like your fellow Pacers to know? Sagittarius Fire Monkey
Name: Erika Hirsch
Which group do you run with? Team 14
How long have you been with the Pasadena Pacers? Since 2018
How many marathons have you run? 6
Why do you run? I love the feeling of running outside, especially long runs when you get to explore different neighborhoods and environments with friends. I also enjoy the fun energy of races and having different races on my calendar to look forward to.
Favorite post run snack/meal? In-N-Out
Running Mantra: Listen to your body and don’t forget to trim your toenails!
Occupation: Psychotherapist
Hometown: Tustin, CA
What do you do for fun? Disneyland trips (especially around Halloween and Christmas), true crime books and podcasts, taking my kids to National Parks
Do you have a secret talent? (Please share): I’m a painter and enjoy oil painting and watercolors
Anything else you’d like your fellow Pacers to know? Don’t underestimate run/walk intervals!