In this edition of our runner spotlight, we introduce Team Grassroot’s international recruit: José Rodolfo Ramírez Díaz. A native from Quéretaro, Mexico. José is looking to make something of tradition running full and half marathons internationally as he completed the Paris half marathon recently. We are very excited to have José on board and take this opportunity to introduce him to the Grassroot family!
1. What motivated you to run for Team Grassroot?
My mother has completed 4 marathons in the last 2 years, she has always been a great example for me. This year she decided to run the Marine Corps Marathon and I decided to join her. I have always loved helping people by doing what I like, so last year, during my exchange in France, I ran the Paris Half Marathon for charity, I did it for the Alvarum fundation (Alvarum treats children with lysosomal diseases) and with the help of family and friends, we fund raised 400 Euros. It was the first time I heard about running for charity and the idea sounded so good to me. So this year in the MCM, I started looking for foundations that I could help and Grassroots convinced me among all and I wanted to be part of it and help youth!
2. What do you love most about running?
Something that I really love about running is that it gives me a great opportunity to know myself better: It is a time that I use exclusively for me and that helps me to reduce stress and relax, to prove myself that I am capable of doing what I want and to think about my activities, projects, etc.
3. How is your training going?
Training is going pretty well, I should admit that right now it´s getting tough but it is worth it and I like it. Every runner knows that with sacrifice comes success, and it doesn´t matter if sometimes it is painful, the final goal is what we should always keep in mind. This week, I will be running 30Km as part of my training plan, it will be a good test considering that we have only 40 days left for the MCM! The hardest part is coming, so I will enjoy it and give my best shot in every training session in order to finish the MCM and help Team Grassroot.
4.Who is your role model?
Without any doubt I should say my mother. I am really similar to her and we have so many things in common. I started to run because of her and I admire her achievements and strength. She has overcome to serious injuries because of running, she has always worked hard for what she wants and she has already finished 4 marathons! On the other hand, a professional athlete that I have always admired is Roger Federer, he is a great example of perseverance and hard work. He has been one of the most successful athletes in history and he is also a great man, he helps several foundations, he has never been involved in scandals and he is very kind to his fans.
5.What is one fun fact about you?
During the races I am always joking, dancing, screaming, encouraging people and from time to time a wear funny stuff. I always do it because it helps me to keep myself relax, enjoy the race and forget about the difficulties that it can involve.
