AZTECH Training: FACES OF RUNNERS

Meet Carlos Garcia 

Age: 27

Hometown: Born in Redwood City in California and raised in Flagstaff.

Job/career: Currently on Vacation.

How did you get into running? When I was younger, my mom would watch track and marathon events on television. I used to wonder how these runners could run so fast or for so long and soon I was telling my mom that I wanted to run and be fast like them. Well, unfortunately I am not that fast, but I feel re-energized to begin running again and see how fast I can get.

What do you like best about running and least about it? What I like most about running is the self-satisfaction and personal achievement that I get out of it. The least thing is having to deal with injuries and soreness.

Favorite sports drink and/or nutrient such as GU? I really haven’t tried a whole lot of nutrients and I don’t use GU, but I did pick up a PowerBar endurance sports drink formula at Runner’s Den and I’ve got to say it’s really good.

How many miles do you put in on average before a race? Well, it has been three months since I started training again competitively after a six-year hiatus. So, right now I’m around 30 to 40 miles a week. I am really looking forward to increasing the mileage and getting back to race shape again.

What do you say or do to get you through the last leg of a race? All I keep thinking about is getting to the finish line so I can enjoy a cup of water or a sports drink.

What is your favorite race and why? I don’t have a particular one at this time. I just prefer racing any events less than 10,000 meters.

What do you eat before a race, day of or night before? Well, I was always taught, "It’s not the night before that is the most important but the second night before a race that is more so". On that day, it’s usually pasta night.

Do you have a lucky charm that you carry or wear to a race? No, I don’t need one. I just stay focused on running the race.

Favorite shoe brand and why? Brooks. I really like the brand a lot. They have the best technologies in running shoes that the market has to offer. They only make running and walking shoes, so you know you are getting a quality shoe and not a shoe that is based off of any gimmick. I would recommend to anyone to give this brand a try and see what the shoes can offer. A good place to go would be Runner’s Den. They will find the right show for you and they have a good selection of Brooks running shoes.

What other sports do you participate in? I do try to get some pick-up games in for basketball, football, disc golf and ultimate Frisbee when the opportunity arises.

What are your goals this year as a runner? This year I am focused on training smart and building my base while staying injury-free.