My name is Jen and I live and run on Tongva Land (Los Angeles basin). I am privileged to run with different groups locally including the Pasadena Pacers, Run With Us Race Team, and Friday Donut Run Club. I am originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, so CIM will always feel like a homecoming for me. I became a distance runner as an adult, mostly as a way to cope with school and work stresses. After finishing the Los Angeles and New York marathons in the same year, I was hooked! I decided to focus on qualifying for the Boston Marathon, inspired by the community of runners around me. When I completed the Boston Marathon in 2019, I took a short break from intense training to have my son (now 4). I came back in 2021 as a mother runner and stronger than ever. I have since completed 4 half marathons, 5 marathons, and 1 ultramarathon (50k) with PRs in all distances.

Yes, running can be a source of achievement: BQs, OTQs, PRs, but it’s also about giving your best effort on that day. It’s about connecting with others in a shared pursuit. My goal as a 2024 CIM ambassador is to inspire people to get out the door and get moving in ways that feel good for their bodies. And, if a few people decide to sign up for their first marathon (hopefully, CIM), even better!

Instagram – @cheer_jen

My name is Albert Mendez, and I am a Southern California-based runner.

I Love running so much and when I run it is my time to get “away” and enjoy the freedom and peace that running brings to me. My favorite part of running is meeting new people and the friendships I have made through running. I am a #TeamULTRA team member and my running group is WAHOO Running. I enjoy running with this community because they are some of the best people anywhere; The support, friendships, and sense of community that they bring are the best and I am forever blessed to be part of this community. My goals for 2024 and CIM are to spread the Joy that I have found through running with others. I plan to run the Chevron Houston Half Marathon, Gasparilla Distance Classic, Los Angeles Marathon, The OKC Memorial Half, Chicago, New York City, and CIM.

Instagram – @trebla1969

I am a retired collegiate cheerleader who started running almost 5 years after graduating from college (October 2021). Now, I’m the founder of a track club and running team; The Society Track Club, and I’ve run 4 marathons. My biggest motivating factor when it comes to running is connecting with myself and the people within the community. My motto for races is “run the mile you’re in” because I know that 1 mile is doable and once I run that one, then I can run the next.

A running-related goal that I work towards is bringing out the potential in those around me. Of course, I want to get faster – as a runner, who doesn’t? That being said, fast is relative to each runner and I love watching those around me realize how capable they are and break through the boundary of what “fast” is to surprise themselves with their accomplishments.

Instagram – @runwithmak

I’m Megan Yarberry. CIM marked my second marathon, where I achieved a sub-4 hour finish—a significant milestone after starting with a 5+ hour time in my first marathon a year prior. Alongside marathon running, I’ve delved into triathlons, particularly in the 70.3 category, finding immense joy and challenge in the sport. Running has been a lifeline for me, bringing amazing friendships and support, especially through the Atlanta Run Club. When I’m not running, I’m busy in the kitchen baking, enjoying a good book with coffee, or supporting college athletics with data analytics.

Looking ahead, my goal for the 2024 CIM marathon is redemption. I’m aiming to qualify for the Boston Marathon (BQ), and simultaneously, I’m focused on building a robust foundation to conquer my first Ironman later this year.

Instagram – @onthemovewithmegan

I’m Erica, from Sanger, located in California’s Central Valley. I first started running twelve years ago and have completed 12 marathons and 1 ultra-marathon, since then. My relationship with running stemmed from going on walks on the weekends, which then turned into jogging, jogging with neighbors, running, and now racing and being a group-run leader. Running has been my constant – even through pregnancy. I currently lead a local running group – Latinos Run Fresno, where I enjoy connecting with folks and making space for everyone to feel welcome.

CIM is my favorite marathon, for many reasons, but primarily the diverse community of runners, course, and spectators! CIM was one of my first postpartum marathons. The first time I ran CIM I had such a great experience that I decided to run it again the following year. Having my family on the course at mile 20 and then again at the finish line, was very empowering for me and another reason why this marathon is of significance to me. I’m currently working towards earning a Boston Marathon qualifying time. My long-term goal is to become an Abbott World Marathon Major Six Star Finisher (4 more marathons to go).

Running can be enjoyed by everybody!

Instagram – @mami_corredora

I’m a former professional soccer player turned athlete entrepreneur + creator and a 1st generation Nigerian American raised in Sacramento. My running journey started upon retiring and used running as a way to challenge myself and stay fit. My mantra is OK U GO, it’s a play on my last name but my thing is you should always go and try to reach your highest level in whatever you do. My running goal at the moment is a 4 hour marathon and 500 miles logged for the year. I would love to also build a consistent run club community.

I love CIM because of what it does for the Sacramento community. Bringing people together for a great cause. The CIM means a little bit more because people come to qualify for olympic trials and other races. I’m looking forward to beating my score from last year and meeting more people as I get more ingrained into the running community.

Instagram – @amobisays
Website – www.amobiokugo.com