Meet Your Pacer: Maria (aka your new race-day bestie)

Hi runners! I’m Maria, originally from Caracas, Venezuela, and I’m here to help you hit your goal and have a great time doing it. I’m the kind of pacer who will keep you steady, calm, motivated, and probably laughing when things get tough.

PR: 4:08
Easy pace: 9:30–10:00/mi
Marathons completed: 10
Occupation: Accountant (yes, I’m obsessed with pacing math)

Favorite marathons

Choosing just one is impossible, but right now my favorites are the New York City Marathon and the London Marathon. Both are iconic, both are electric, and both will humble you in the best way.

Personality outside of running

If I’m not running, you’ll probably find me dancing (because cardio with music is a vibe), reading, or watching crime documentaries like I’m the detective.

And yes, I’m currently reading The Zohar. This needs to be read 100 times.

Favorite running food

Tostones, arepas, and pasta. Basically, if it’s a carb and it makes me happy, it’s on the menu.

Big personal goal

Boston Marathon is happening. I’ll be running the Boston Marathon on April 20, 2026.

Quote I live by

“Run the mile you’re in.”
Because thinking about mile 20 at mile 4 is personal disrespect.

Why I run

Running has a magical way of turning “life is too much” into “okay, I can handle this.” After a good run, everything feels lighter, clearer, and more possible. It’s when I feel the most present and the most alive.

Best marathon memory

My favorite memory will always be my very first marathon: Miami Marathon 2016. I had barely started running when, five weeks before race day, I met Coach Luis Aguilar, who kindly volunteered to help me by building a five-week training plan.

I was terrified before the start line. Running your first marathon is overwhelming—equal parts magic and pain, but finishing it was one of the hardest and most beautiful things I’ve ever done.

Why I pace

Running gives us so much—confidence, strength, and peace—and pacing is my way of giving back. If I can help someone stay steady, stay calm, and believe in themselves when the race gets real, that means everything to me.

Best pacing moment

Helping a 15-year-old girl complete her first half marathon. Watching her reach that goal was unforgettable.

Why you should run with my pace group

Because we’re not just running, we’re running together. We’ll stay consistent, support each other, keep the energy up, and have fun along the way. It’s a team effort.