Team Run Hub: Hayden Herrera

Leading up to the Eugene Marathon and Half Marathon, we are featuring a few of our Team Run Hub athletes who have been training with the group since the end of January. If you’re interested in joining a future Team Run Hub training group, click here. Our next training program starts in August for the EWEB Run to Stay Warm. Registration will open in July.

Meet Hayden Herrera, training for his first full marathon

Why did you start running? And how long have you been doing it? 
 

I started running mainly as a way to get into better shape, but now I do it for fun. I got serious with it around 2012, took a little hiatus and got back into running when I moved to Eugene in 2015.

Why did you join Team Run Hub?

I have really wanted to run a marathon but I’ve never had the proper training plan. I love going to the Wednesday night Community Runs with Run Hub and I knew their team would have a great training system. 
Which race are you training for? And what’s your goal for race day?
I’m training for the Eugene Marathon. My goal is first and foremost to finish. As far as a time, I’m still not sure yet but anything around the four hour mark would be great.
 
What motivates you to run?
 
For myself, I just love being outside and when I’m running I get a chance to clear my mind and focus on only one thing. My motivation is to continue to improve as I get more experience.
 
What stands out as your favorite aspect of the training program so far?
 
I love the Saturday morning long runs. When I saw the training schedule I got kind of nervous at the thought of the long runs, but the coaches pick different spots each week and the runs have gone pretty smoothly so far.
 
What is your favorite midrun fuel? Post run recovery meal? 
 
I recently tried eating the gels for midrun fuel and I like them. They definitely give me a boost. Afterward, I always like a vanilla protein shake.
 
Do you have a running mantra you repeat in your head when things get tough? 
 
I don’t have a mantra, but I always like to think of the moment of crossing a finish line and how much satisfaction I’ll get if I can just bear through this tough time and persevere.
 
What is your biggest running mistake that you have made and would caution others to avoid or what is the worst running advice you have ever received? 
 
Back in December, I was trying to get my mileage up and I thought I could be able to run every day of the month. I got to around Christmas before I’m pretty sure I had a sprained ankle. So I would suggest taking an off day or two per week if you’re trying to up your mileage.
 
What is another activity you enjoy when not running? 
 
I like basketball and soccer. My long runs have made it easier for me to stay on the court longer because I’ve built up a stamina for it.
 
Do you have a most memorable run or workout? Or favorite place to run? If so, tell us about it. (It doesn’t have to have been during training since we’re only a few weeks in.)
 
My favorite place to run is along the Willamette River on the bike path. I live right next to it near Valley River Center and it’s so easy to just get on the trail and run. The view of the river is always nice.
Good luck on your first full marathon, Hayden!