THE HEART IS GROWING!

The start of the 2012 Olympic Trials

Im back home and find myself physically and emotionally exhausted. I have a feeling the next two weeks will be weeks of growth and understanding. If you have been at some of my speaking engagements and have heard me talk about my philosophy on how is it that our hearts grow, then you will understand what I am talking about.

The biggest surprise of the weekend
was to see my sister Alicia show up
the day before the race to the hotel
with the rest of the family.

Yesterday, an hour before the trials and thirty minutes or so after the race was over, my heart could not wait and started the process. Yes, I found myself crying in front of my coach. I was crying, because It was my way to express how grateful and thankful I was to make it to another Olympic Trials. I was grateful to have another chance and I was determined to make the best of what the day had to offer. Then, three hours and a half later tears came out soon after I saw my sister. For once I understood the meaning of the sport and why I was there. Yesterday, I was able to appreciate what I have accomplished all this years.

With my fans (nephews) after the race!

Thirty nine hours later, I can tell you I gave my best, even if my best was not my personal best or my favorite place, that was my best yesterday and I am absolutely proud of it. I am proud of my journey here. I am proud of making it this far. I am motivated to get my body 100% and see what I can do when I take my engine to the mechanic for an adjustment and oil change.

Priceless!!!!

For know, I will allow this heart of mine do its growing and then I will take it from there. Thanks to everyone who in one way or another gave me a hand to get to this point. To my porra (cheering fans and family) big, big thanks!

All in all, I am proud to be an IN THE ARENA athlete. I am proud of my 33rd place and my 2:38:37 finishing time, because its allowing me to go to a wonderful process: Feel my heart grow!

HAPPY 2012

Cant believe 2012 is already here. The Olympic trials are just two weeks away. I've been in Houston for a month now and the adventures and experiences are going to be ones to remember for years to come. I am excited to be part of the 2012 Olympic trials field. Im very happy to look back and once again confirm that is not about the destination, but the journey. A journey that I am very fortunate to have taken.

2011 was a year that allowed me to explore and try new things. I left Alamosa for several training camps at sea level at my own expense. The price paid was well worth it. My time in California did not only allowed me to grow as an athlete, but to learn more about myself, and in top of that I was able to share my passion and love for this sport with one of my oldest brothers (Jhonny) whom at the end was even able to pace some of my workouts. This decisions and changes were not easy, but for sure they made me appreciate all the people and network of support I have in Alamosa. In 2011 I clearly experience that saying: "You don't know what you have until is taken away".





Furthermore, 2011 allowed me to witness many positive transformations with all the kids and people I work with in the after school tutoring program. The highlights of the year were seeing our kids grades go up and seeing parents get involved in their children's activities during and after school.





How to forget when all the kids receive a bunch of goodies from PUMA and the endless phone calls from a girl from Grand Junction inviting me to come and run the Girls Run 5km on the run with her. What about when the day I get and email confirming I made the USA World Championship team and two weeks later I get an apology call saying "Sorry, you are not" Then, after having the worst race and finishing last at the USA Track and Field 10,000m race, I confirm I'm back on what would be my 3rd World Championship team. Yeah, like I said back then~Bittersweet experience.

Being part of the World Championship USA Team and represent the USA for the 3rd time was just a gift from God. A great, great experience!



Wow, so many sweet and not so sweet memories, but all of them had to happen for a reason and many months later I am grateful for them as I can clearly see the reasoning behind every single event or circumstance.

For 2012, Im excited to continue to grow and put into practice all I've learned from 2011. Quite honest, Im looking forward to a successful year.

Happy~ Happy and very successful 2012!!!