Meet Lea Reyes

Meet Lea Reyes(HF16015, DA2891, MM13731) – San Jose RNR Half with her, and I laughed, considering I was never a runner or thought about becoming one. I believe my exact words were, “Girl, I don’t run!” She knew I was going through a traumatic domestic violence marriage and was planning to escape my nightmare of a relationship. I was drowning myself in alcoholic happy hours, day and night, battling a silent depression.
I was up for the challenge, considering athleticism had always been a part of my life—but I knew I had to stop drinking. How hard could this be? So I thought. We trained for two months, and I thought to myself, This sucks. Never again. It wasn’t until I got through the sweat, the sickness of barfing along the way, the tears, and crossing the finish line that I found my calling to help me through my troubles.
I was sore for two weeks and could barely walk. From then on, daily running became a part of my life. I ran one or two half and full marathons a year, but it wasn’t until the 2017 SF Marathon, when I saw a woman wearing a pink Marathon Maniacs jacket that reminded me of the movie Grease and the Pink Ladies, that I had to have it. I submitted my races and became a Maniac, Fanatic, and Double Agent.
I continued to sign up for half and full marathons year-round. It’s what I look forward to every weekend—to keep me grounded, healthy, strong, and smiling. I am grateful for the running community—the Maniacs, ABWR, and the friends I have made along the way who keep me going. I’m the happiest and strongest I’ve ever been because of running.
The travel, the beauty of different cities, the running stories of others, being out in nature, and the friends I see for 26 miles or more while on my feet—it’s the best. The accomplishment of crossing the finish line, with sheds of tears before, during, and after the race, is worth it. Because in the end, I smile and look forward to the next one.
Now, at the age of 51, the half and full marathons have gotten me to where I am today—with hundreds of completed races and beautiful medals on my walls. The Ultras, 50 States, 100 Marathon, and Seven Continents Clubs will take me on a run around the world. I’m looking forward to the continued challenges, one step at a time, enjoying every minute—conquering the roads and trails every chance I get.
Thank you to the running community for helping me change my life. See you on the course—and please give a shout-out. I love to meet new people.

Photo and Post Credit Marathon Maniacs Newsletter