Pace Team Leaders
BERTRAND NEWSON
Too Legit Fitness Team Captain
What keeps you running?
The undeniable therapeutic payback and pure joy that running gives you. I’ve been very fortunate over the years since I’ve started running to meet some of my closest friends. The running community is rich in fitness fellowship and incredibly supportive. I’ll continue try to and outrun father time while always respecting every race course/distance and staying humble in the process.
What motivates you to pace?
Having the unique opportunity to “pay it forward” and share running wisdom/experience with fellow runners seeking new running distance milestones/PR’s.
Any hobbies or interests besides running, or any fun facts about you?
I enjoy white water rafting, skydiving (4 jumps so far), recreational softball. Fun fact: In 2012 I was very lucky and had an opportunity to participate in special corporate event (batting practice) held at AT&T Park home of the SF Giants. My younger brother Bernardo Newson and a few close friends were able to participate and I was fortunate to hit a HR (home run) over the fence.
Your Half Marathon PR time:
1:45:48 (2016 Race to the End of Summer and 2016 San Jose Rock n Roll Half Marathon. Yep, same exact time in two separate races lol).
BECKY "Pitbull" HERNANDEZ
Too Legit Fitness Co-Captain &
Pace Group Coordinator
NANDO GONZALES
Pace Group Training Ambassador
What keeps you running?
I do it for my health. I want to be around to watch my child grow up.
What motivates you to pace?
The feeling of helping someone reach a new PR is amazing! Know that your efforts have paid off.
Any hobbies or interests besides running, or any fun facts about you.
I run for beer!
Your Half Marathon PR time?
Half Marathon P.R. 1:42:15
RAY "Razor" AVALOS
Pace Group Training Ambassador
EARL HOOKS II
Pacer Ambassador Coach
WHAT KEEPS YOU RUNNING?
The Therapy I get from running is one of my greatest discoveries. Running makes me feel rejuvenated and is a great reminder of how far I have come. Always moving forward, means progress to me.
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO PACE?
I have a strong passion for helping someone achieve a goal that they once thoughts was impossible. I believe it all starts with the mind and planting healthy seeds early in the race can lead to success at the end. Control the mind and you will control the body.
ANY HOBBIES OR INTERESTS BESIDES RUNNING, OR ANY FUN FACTS ABOUT YOU?
Yoga is something I highly recommend and respect. When I want better results in my running or strength training, I add more Yoga. When life gets crazy, I add more Yoga.
YOUR HALF MARATHON PR TIME?
Half Marathon PR is 1:31:37
JIMMY QUILENDERINO
Pacer Ambassador Coach
WHAT KEEPS YOU RUNNING?
What keeps me running is fitness level running can take you to. Running is so good for the body and I wish everyone ran! Also getting up early to run trails on the weekends... you get to see beautiful sunrises in places most wont ever see!
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO PACE?
The motivation to pace just comes from enjoying helping others to pr or just make it to the end of the race! I get just as much joy helping others pr as I would if it were me tossin up a pr for all to see!
ANY HOBBIES OR INTERESTS BESIDES RUNNING, OR ANY FUN FACTS ABOUT YOU?
I don’t have any hobbies. My life revolves around my dogs and fitness. So for what others may consider a hobby, I’m considering my running, Crossfit and my overall fitness as a lifestyle.
YOUR HALF MARATHON PR TIME?
1:29 for my half PR.
PACERS
NATALIE CHAVEZ ANDERSON
Pacer
WHAT KEEPS YOU RUNNING?
Sheer love of running, i think it's Fun!
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO PACE?
I like helping people 🙂
ANY HOBBIES OR INTERESTS BESIDES RUNNING, OR ANY FUN FACTS ABOUT YOU?
I have 10 sisters. I'm Type A personality, Alpha Female. I'm not afraid to try new things.
YOUR HALF MARATHON PR TIME?
2:21
JILL AHEARN
Pacer
WHAT KEEPS YOU RUNNING?
I started running because I had a very stressful, yet sedentary career as a 911 dispatcher. It was a way for me to disconnect from that and to get moving!! Since I retired I still find peace in my runs. Also being able to run with my Too Legit Trib tribe provides endless miles of inspiration, friendship and laughter.
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO PACE?
I was motivated to pace by the opportunity to pay it back. In all the races I have run, I have always kept a close eye on the pacers... they kept me on-track and always had words of encouragement when I needed it most. Now it is my turn to encourage others and I can't wait!
ANY HOBBIES OR INTERESTS BESIDES RUNNING, OR ANY FUN FACTS ABOUT YOU?
I love running, but I also spend a lot of time kayaking, at the crossfit gym and biking. Although I retired from my full time job I now work in the Executive Protection field and it is imperative that stay healthy and fit. If I'm moving, I'm happy!
YOUR HALF MARATHON PR TIME?
Half Marathon PR: 1:54:03
BEN BALAGOT
Pacer
WHAT KEEPS YOU RUNNING?
I found running not only gives me the cardio exercise that I need, but it also keeps me grounded from the stresses of life and allows me to enjoy also the outdoors a bit more. It's nice to see the personal progress I've made through the years in terms of my running achievements. I've also made a lot of running friends along the way through groups and events!
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO PACE?
The biggest motivation to pace is being able to help others achieve a specific goal in an event one is hoping to perform well in. It's always nice to be able to give someone the encouragement and push they need to run strong!
ANY HOBBIES OR INTERESTS BESIDES RUNNING, OR ANY FUN FACTS ABOUT YOU?
I love to travel, especially to tropical locations. I love music, and was a DJ on the side for many years.
YOUR HALF MARATHON PR TIME?
San Jose Rock and Roll, 10/7/18, 1:29:51 @ 6:52 pace
JOHN HANSON
Pacer
What keeps you running?
I started a Streak of at least 5k a day on 1-1-2015 and I am not ready to break it. Also still trying to Qualify for Boston!
What motivates you to pace?
I love helping others reach their goals. I have relied on pacers to not go out too fast and to keep going, and I like returning the favour.
Any hobbies or interests besides running, or any fun facts about you.
Music, I play Bass and Clarinet. And Indonesian Language, lived there 10 years...
Your Half Marathon PR time:
1:33:08 at Yosemite Half 2015
LAUREN HANSON
Pacer
What keeps you running?
The mental clarity I receive from running and the feeling I get every time I finish a race. Running is the most freeing kind of meditation I have ever experience and I absolutely love it.
What motivates you to pace?
I pace because I like to share my knowlege with other runners and bring the best out of their performance to reach their goals. I am also a social butterfly so I get to make new friends in my running community.
Any hobbies or interests besides running, or any fun facts about you.
Im a busy bee, work, school, and running are my life. Ive completed 4 Ultra`s this year and am trying my luck in a triathlon this summer.
Your Half Marathon PR time:
2:15
SYLVIA LOERA
Pacer
WHAT KEEPS YOU RUNNING?
My family, friends and our Too Legit to Quit running crew inspire me to run. I used to believe that in order to be a runner, you had to be born a runner. Once I started running, I realized that you didn’t have to be an athlete but instead you had to have the desire, determination and the mental grit to stick with what you had committed to do; whether it be to run 1 mile or 100 miles. Once running became part of my routine, the motivation to increase my pace or achieve a specific goal (i.e. Sub 2hr for Half Marathon, Full Marathon, Ultra Marathon, Trail running etc) motivated me to continue running. The running community is one of the most inclusive groups and through running, I formed many friendships. It is our shared love for running that races became more about the journey than the statistical outcome of each race. And although I am certainly motivated by the known health and well-being benefits of running, I am inspired by the memories that are created along the way.
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO PACE?
Being a Pacer, official and nonofficial, makes you view running through a new perspective. One of my most memorable pacing experience was at the LA Marathon where we were invited to pace our teenage nephew for part of his first full marathon. It was at that race, that I remembered why I love running. That race was not about PRs or finish times but about witnessing those young kids achieve a goal they didn’t believe they could accomplish. Since that day, I’ve had the opportunity to non-officially pace others and have been blessed to have others pace me. Each time, I was truly inspired by the runners and/or the Pacer. I am also inspired by our Too Legit Running community which embodies a sense of camaraderie and a true spirit of paying it forward. “If you get, give. If you learn, teach.” – Maya Angelou. For this, I am honored to have the opportunity to be part of 2018 Silicon Valley Half Marathon race pacing crew.
ANY HOBBIES OR INTERESTS BESIDES RUNNING, OR ANY FUN FACTS ABOUT YOU?
Outside of running, I enjoy doing obstacle course races (OCR combine trail, mud and obstacles) and, of more recent, have taken on triathlons (swimming, bicycling, and running). I’ve started doing OCRs in 2015 and in 2016, I earned 3 Trifectas for completing 9 Spartan events within one calendar year. Last year, I completed my first Triathlon in Capitola Beach; this was after having learned to swim 2 months prior. What I love about participating in these sports is that they help foster teamwork, enable you to face your fears and it gives you the rare opportunity to truly be present so you can enjoy the journey and accomplishment.
My non-sport related hobby is collecting miniature Christmas villages. It is a hobby I started over 20 years ago and a passion I share with my daughter. My collection grows every year which drives me to find creative ways to display them during the holiday season. This is one hobby that I haven’t received a medal nonetheless it is one that I cherish the most for the joy it brings my family.
YOUR HALF MARATHON PR TIME?
PR Time is 1:57:59. Achieved this PR at the 2017 Livermore Half Marathon
MARIA L. MENDOZA
Pacer
What keeps you running?
I certainly do not run to be skinny that's for sure! I run to stay fit and to feel strong. I run because I love it! I miss it when I don't. I like feeling the fresh air and observing the surroundings. Running is like therapy for me, because I feel like it's my space and place to reflect on everything - keeps me sane. It also keeps me connected to all my cool running peeps and nature. And life without cool people and big trees is far less rich. It's a huge part of my life and it will be until I can't run anymore
What motivates you to pace?
The running community has given me so much, and pacing is my way of giving back. I want to be part of providing a fun and excitement for both first time, and experienced runners looking to reach their running goals - whether that's a personal best, or just getting across the finish line.
Any hobbies or interests besides running, or any fun facts about you.
You name it I play it...except football! I’ll play flag football though. I'm always up for a sport/fitness challenge. I like taking long road trips in car or bike. I enjoy the outdoors and like being out in the wilderness - LOVE camping and hiking, and find so much joy being embraced by Mother Nature and her beauty. I'm a tree hugger! I like attending music festivals, and enjoy karaoke and acting. In fact, my dream was to be famous in Hollywood. And since I didn’t make it, here I am!
And the latest interest in my life, is maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Two years ago, I did my first clean eating challenge and it did me good. It did me so good that my body transformation inspired others. And that in itself sparked an interest/desire in me, to promote a healthy eating lifestyle. Since then, I have spent lots of time and effort at motivating others to make healthier choices. On my down time, if I'm not watching a movie at home, I'm reading and learning about different types of healthy lifestyles. That way I can share/inform or do whatever I can to help individuals that struggle or find it challenging in creating healthy eating habits. I believe that there’s always room for improvement, and I'm still work in progress.
Your Half Marathon PR time?
SJRNR - 1:52:18
FELICIA NAPOLI
Pacer
What keeps you running?
it’s my “me time” I feel better when I run, I feel happier when I run, I’m nicer to other people when I run! 😉
What motivates you to pace?
Team 2L2Q has provided me with so much support that it only feels natural to pay it forward if I can.
Any hobbies or interests besides running, or any fun facts about you.
I love to cook and I LOVE music! I love to play music while I cook!!! Too bad I’m on a keto diet because I can get down with some homemade tortillas!
Your Half Marathon PR time:
2:09. I’d love to break that 2:00 hr Mark someday but for now I’m just happy that I’m running again.
RANDY PANGELINA
Pacer
What keeps you running?
My health, keeping a good body, mind and soul.
What motivates you to pace?
Sharing my journey and goals, being a part of others journeys and goals.
ANY HOBBIES OR INTERESTS BESIDES RUNNING, OR ANY FUN FACTS ABOUT YOU?
I feel like I live two lives, one in San Francisco where I work and another in San Jose where I live. World travel but I still love San Francisco the most.
YOUR HALF MARATHON PR TIME?
1:42:00
JASON PEEVYHOUSE
Pacer
WHAT KEEPS YOU RUNNING?
What keeps me running is the awesome community of runners that I have found. It’s encouraging and inspiring to know that people are there step by step with you and keep me motivated to keep at it. I also enjoy the connectedness I feel to my surroundings, whether it’s on the trails or in the city.
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO PACE?
What motivates me to pace is to give back to the running community. The TooLegit pace team was inspiring to me as I was chasing my first half marathon and invested so much time and knowledge into my training. I want to give that experience that I had to others.
ANY HOBBIES OR INTERESTS BESIDES RUNNING, OR ANY FUN FACTS ABOUT YOU?
I enjoy playing Star Wars miniatures board games and hiking with my family. I’m a soccer fan and play multiple stringed instruments.
YOUR HALF MARATHON PR TIME?
My half marathon PR is 1:52:28 at the inaugural SV half marathon in 2018.
JACKIE SILVA
Pacer
WHAT KEEPS YOU RUNNING?
Running is therapeutic for me. It can be a solo run or a social run as long as I keep moving, it keeps me energized the whole day. Running also reduces stress, keeps me in shape and it injects happiness into my busy life. To me, running no matter the distance, pace or place is very rewarding.
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO PACE?
The motivation behind pacing is to help other runners get to the finish line and achieve their running goal. Running a half marathon can be challenging but If I can help other fellow runners keep a consistent pace, then I’ll be satisfied knowing that I played a role in making that special moment happen for them. Come April 15, it’ll be an honor and privilege to see runners who have worked so hard cross that finish line.
ANY HOBBIES OR INTERESTS BESIDES RUNNING, OR ANY FUN FACTS ABOUT YOU?
Surprise, surprise, when I’m not running you will find me hiking with the family. My other hobby is dancing. When I was single dancing was my preferred form of cardio. Now I dance occasionally, but when I do, it feels amazing!
YOUR HALF MARATHON PR TIME?
San Jose Rock and Roll, 2014.
Bib #5605
Time: 1:49:36
ERIC SULLIVAN
Pacer
What keeps you running?
The health benefits, the stress relief it provides, and the motivation to get better each time I run/race.
What motivates you to pace?
I remember when I ran my first half marathon – Kaiser SF – and how I thought the pacers were going help me achieve my time. They were awesome and gave us advice as we ran and also helped with course navigation. I want to pay it forward and help others achieve their goal of finishing the race at their goal time. I remember there was no greater feeling when I finished my race and achieved my goal.
Any hobbies or interests besides running, or any fun facts about you.
Fun Fact – I always run with my dog – McCovey – he is the motivator and the reason that I run. McCovey LOVES to run and looks forward to it every day. Without McCovey I would not have started running. Also when I started training for my first half marathon I decided to let my beard grow, it was a symbol of my “training mode”. I have not shaved my beard since then and have let it grow out. Now it is as much a part of me as McCovey and running.
Your Half Marathon PR time?:
1:31:23
MELISSA YAMASHITA
Pacer
WHAT KEEPS YOU RUNNING?
Running has become a social thing for me now. I have met some amazing people through running and being out there (for hours sometimes) with them gives me the chance to catch up and get to know them better. Their stories inspire me to keep moving forward and set new goals for myself. Also, a lot of runners like to eat and drink as much as I do, so it's a win-win!!
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO PACE?
Pacing has kind of been a goal of mine for a while, but I didn't really have an "in" until now. It'll be fun to hang out with others and watch them hit their stride!
ANY HOBBIES OR INTERESTS BESIDES RUNNING, OR ANY FUN FACTS ABOUT YOU?
I met Becky Hernandez (aka Pitbull) in Body Step class at the YMCA. Years later we are now both certified instructors. I love running as much as I love teaching group fitness classes. Also, although I'm a HS Spanish teacher, I'm actually Filipina-American married to a Japanese man - not Latina at all!
YOUR HALF MARATHON PR TIME?
Your Half Marathon PR time - 1:45:22 (SJ RnR 2012)