Team Motivation trains for Guam International Marathon

by Marie Calvo Monge

Guam - With the Guam International Marathon just about a month away, you may have noticed an influx of runners in training along Guam's sidewalks.  Meet one group of people gearing up for the event Team Motivation.

The countdown has begun for Guam's premiere sports tourism event bringing together our visitors and people from our community in the spirit of fun and fitness. "We've all known each other for quite a few years and we've met through various groups, but we've been running together about a year," said Sonya Nieves.

Each member discovered the sport of for different reasons. "I run because it's a stress reliever," explained Josh Tyquiengco. "It's great because I get to bond with different people from different backgrounds. It's just a way to connect with yourself and your environment." And Geralyn Mendiola added, "For me I have kids so sometimes it's hard to go to different classes at different times so it's good to be able to go at anytime."

These friends share a bond in fitness, running several times a week and now have their sights set on the Guam International Marathon.  Because the run accommodates runners at all levels, each member of team motivation has different goals in sight.  Natalia Faculo said, "I recently came out from an injury about a year or two ago and I want to challenge myself again and with the help, motivation and energy of this group I'm able to that."

"Last year I did the 10K and so watching my friends do the half marathon kind of gave me that inspiration to run this year so my goal is to actually finish hopefully I have a good time," added Mendiola.

Team Motivation members have inspiring messages for those that may be thinking about signing up for the Guam International Marathon or even just trying out the sport of running.  "My advice is to join with a friend and be each other's support," said Teresa Camacho. Tyquiengco added, "I used to hate running because I had asthma, so I ran to get rid of my asthma and now I'm running marathons."

And if you still don't feel ready to run a marathon or half-marathon, there are runs at the GIM for everyone. "What's great about this event is there's a 5K, 10K, half- and full-marathon so if you're pretty nervous you can start with a 5k. That's how I started!" shared Nieves.

There's still time to sign up for the Guam International Marathon.  Tomorrow is the registration deadline for the discounted rate, with the final deadline set for April 8. Visit GuamInternationalMarathon.com or PIC in Tumon to register!