Our 2027 LA Marathon training season officially kicked off on Saturday, September 12! 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 Lauren and Erika, our Pace Leaders for our 14:00 Minute Pace Group!
Your Name: Lauren Costales
Your Pace Group: 14:00
How long have you been a Pasadena Pacer? I completed the Pre-Conditioner program in 2013. I was away for a few years and then returned in 2019.
How did you become a runner, and how did you find the Pasadena Pacers? I found running by casually participating in a few 5ks. My cousin found the Pasadena Pacers, and I joined him out of curiosity. So when I decided years later to train for a marathon, I knew exactly where to go.
Describe your pace-leading personality in three words: Intentional. Encouraging. Informative.
Every runner has one: What is your weirdest running habit, superstition, or non-negotiable? On the morning of each marathon I run, I watch the Fun Run episode of The Office, while eating breakfast and getting dressed.
You’re at Mile 20 of the LA Marathon and things are getting ugly. What are you telling your runners? The Pacer tent is at Mile 20. Get what you need (snacks, Biofreeze, hugs from fellow Pacers) but don’t stay long because you’ll be too tempted to stay. 10K to go. YOU GOT THIS!
Choose your fighter: Hills, heat, rain, or 20 miles of flat pavement? Hills
What’s playing in your head during a long run? I don’t typically run with headphones, so I’m listening to nature or chatting with who I am with.
The aid station has magically stocked whatever you want. What are you grabbing? An ice cold coke and peanut butter pretzels.
What’s your favorite post-long run reward? Fries and a milkshake.
Finish this sentence: “If you run with my pace group this season, I promise…” that you will be seen and supported, and I will do my best to help you get physically and mentally prepared for that start (and finish) line.
Your Name: Erika Hirsch
Your Pace Group: 14:00
How long have you been a Pasadena Pacer? Since 2018
How did you become a runner, and how did you find the Pasadena Pacers?I started running half marathons after my second child was born to get back to exercising, when I ran the Rose Bowl Half I saw all of these happy, friendly people in red shirts cheering for each other which looked so nice compared to my solo racing! Then I saw them going into the Rose Bowl locker room and that tipped me off that this group was obviously a very big deal. The next year I thought I would try running my first marathon and joined the Pacers!
Describe your pace-leading personality in three words: Supportive, fun, and inclusive
Every runner has one: What is your weirdest running habit, superstition, or non-negotiable? I have a specific rice ball recipe that I make for my marathons that I have to have as part of my fueling regimen!
You’re at Mile 20 of the LA Marathon and things are getting ugly. What are you telling your runners? You look strong! 20 miles is amazing you only have a 10K left, you can do this!
Choose your fighter: Hills, heat, rain, or 20 miles of flat pavement? Rain
What’s playing in your head during a long run? Harry Styles
The aid station has magically stocked whatever you want. What are you grabbing? Cold orange slices, salt and vinegar chips and frozen washcloths to cool down with!
What’s your favorite post-long run reward? In-N-Out
Finish this sentence: “If you run with my pace group this season, I promise…” No matter what happens, it will be a fun story to tell later!