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 Silvia and Erika, our Pace Leaders for our 12 Minute Pace Group!
Name: Silvia Collins
Which group do you run with? Team 12
How long have you been with the Pasadena Pacers? About 13 years.
How many marathons have you run? 29
Why do you run? To support our Pacers and help get them to the finish line.
Favorite post run snack/meal? Anything Vegan!
Running Mantra: I think I can.
Occupation: School Principal
Hometown: LA
What do you do for fun? Vacation.
Do you have a secret talent? (Please share) Hmmm. Can’t think of a secret talent…
Anything else you’d like your fellow Pacers to know? Believe in yourself, believe in the process, and have fun!
Name: Erika Mendez
Which pace group do you run with? Team 12
How long have you been with the Pasadena Pacers? Since 2021
How many marathons have you run? 3
Why do you run? I run to maintain my ability to run.
Favorite post run snack/meal: Orange juice and a croissant with cream cheese.
Running Mantra: Si se puede!
Occupation: Administrative Assistant
Hometown: Pasadena
What do you do for fun? When I’m not camping, you can find me sipping some coffee at a different coffee shop every week.
Do you have a secret talent? (Please Share) No, nothing that comes to mind.
Anything else you’d like your fellow Pacers to know? Believe in yourself, you are stronger than you think and can accomplish great things!