Road Runner Girl: Runner Spotlights #92

I hope everyone is having a great weekend! We've been busy! It seems like when you're busy it makes the weekend fly by!

It's time for another runner spotlight...my favorite time of the week! I love reading other runners' stories about their running journey! If you are interested in being spotlighted on my blog please email me at mindy@roadrunnergirl.com! I'd love to spotlight you! You don't have to have a blog to be spotlighted...you just have to be a runner! ;-) And I'm running low on spotlights so now's your time to shine!!!

Today I'm spotlighting Gelcys from Runner Unleashed! She has an amazing running story! She was told she would never be able to run because of Scoliosis. Keep reading to learn more about her!

Name: Gelcys Castaneda, better known as cheetah g
State: FL

When and why did you start running?
I've always been a runner but it came to an abrupt end when I was diagnosed with Scoliosis and needed immediate corrective surgery. 4 surgeries in total later, problem barely fixed, I decided to run again after being told I wouldn't be able to handle it. I went from only “handling” 200 meters to handling my first full marathon.

What is your favorite race and race distance?
My favorite race was my first full marathon as it was my most painful, memorable race I've ever done. I had my Alpha by my side and never let me down. I couldn't believe I was a marathoner.
My favorite distance to run is a half marathon distance. It is fun and not too demanding as a full marathon.

What is your race day routine?
I hydrate the day prior to a race and eat as much protein and carbs needed to keep me energized during the race. On race day, I use my foam roller, masssage stick, and end it with some KT Tape to keep me together.

What is your most favorite piece of running gear?
My favorite piece, corrections pieceS of running gear would have to be my A Girl and Her Band hair band. It keeps my hair out of my face, and doesn't slip. My other MUST have is KT Tape!! That stuff keeps me pain free. Since my Scoliosis chronic pain does flare up on long runs, taping up my back keeps it from being unbearable. And lastly, because I can’t narrow it down to one, is my KIAVA running bra!!! Oh, its heaven! Doesn't pinch my higher shoulder, doesn't irritate my “hump” and stays in place!

Do you follow any diet or take any specific supplements that complement your running?
I do not follow any strict diets, but stay towards foods that help with muscle repairs and helps with inflammation like cherries and almonds.

What do you wish you’d known when you first started running?
What I wish I’d known when I first starting running? It’s still a question. I wonder why so many people hate it so much and give up so quickly.

What is your fondest running memory?
Crossing the finish line to my first half marathon. I actually broke down in tears which is a first. I was running for an animal charity (animals are VERY dear to my heart). I struggled half way through where I ended up on the floor with severe pains but I pushed through and made it to the finish.

What is one thing that most people do not know about you?
What most people do not known about me is that I enjoy fixing cars! I grew up with 3 older brothers always helping them fix their cars and it kind of stayed that way.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
I have shared my private struggle with others because I felt left out in the running community. I would follow blogs and pages or people who never get injuries, always place in races and are super fast. I knew I wasn't the only one struggling with chronic pains. I opened up about my Scoliosis and found there are thousands of others just like me.

One thing about me many of you know, I NEVER GIVE UP. I am not the fastest, I am not the best, I run with pain but that doesn't stop me. My goal is to run the NYC Marathon one day and I won’t stop until I get there!