Our 2026 LA Marathon training season officially kicked off on Saturday, September 13! 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 Derrick and Armando, our Pace Leaders for our 10 Minute Pace Group!
Name: Derrick Cheng
Which group do you run with? Team 10
How long have you been with the Pasadena Pacers? 2 years
How many marathons have you run? 4
Why do you run? It improves my mental health and physical health
Favorite post run snack/meal? 🍛
Running Mantra: Sometimes, time takes time
Occupation: Engineer
Hometown: San Gabriel Valley
What do you do for fun? Running, reading, and spending time with family and friends
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Comparison is the thief of joy,
Anything else you’d like your fellow Pacers to know? Thanks for doing your part to make the Pacers an awesome running community! See you at the starting line!
Name: Armando Zambrano
Which group do you run with? Currently with the 10 minute group.
How long have you been with the Pasadena Pacers? About 7 years.
How many marathons have you run? More than 5
Why do you run? Running keeps me grounded. It’s an opportunity to clear my mind, work through ideas, and also to meet up with good people.
Favorite post run snack/meal? Pastries from Highlight, Oh La La, or Urth Cafe
Occupation: Government Attorney
Hometown: Highland Park
What do you do for fun? Work on automobiles.
What is the best piece of running advice you’ve ever received? “Trust your training” from Pedro Rojas.
Anything else you’d like your fellow Pacers to know? Going out for a run can turn a bad day into a good day.