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// the inspiration //

Shortly after my first race, I did the Long Beach Half Marathon. This marathon was ran on behalf of a few children battling cancer. In that short time, we lost one. Gracie Arroz. She was 16 years old and my inspiration for this marathon. She was a fighter and her endurance to run her race of faith battling this disease was what drove me in my training and run.

// mile five // 

In that marathon, at the fifth mile, I had a moment. I posted a picture of that mile marker and the caption read, "The first five were for you Gracie". Immediately after the Lord gave me a vision and placed a desire in my heart. A desire to get people off the couch , encouraging them to do something they probably would never do. To run in an organized race. Not just for a medal, but so that they can experience the spiritual journey of training and, in the process, hopefully get a little healthy. I knew if I could do it anyone can! Fo' real folks!

This experience allowed me to really understand what Paul talks about in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. Immediately after that vision the Lord gave me the name "Runners for Grace." As I continued to run, and pray I was reminded that the number five in numerology means Grace! Gracie is the heart and soul of our team!

// join the team // 

Take on the challenge of being on Runners for Grace! 

Words cannot express the joy and the growth you get when you train and discipline yourself to run such a race. 

You may say, "But I'm not a runner?" Oh, but you are. 1st Corinthians 9:24 says that we are ALL running a race. Friends, it is my hearts desire that you do this for you, for the kids and in memory and celebration of Gracie. I am sure that you can find many reasons why you shouldn't, cant or want to. But I will give you a few reasons why you should. 

1. Because you can! Lets appreciate our legs that the Lord gave us! 99% of us can walk 3.1 miles but I say challenge yourself to jog or even run.

2. Because there are kids out there that are waiting for a cure, they are counting on people like you to help make the difference. 

3. Because you are important. Ladies, we need to take time for ourselves. Walking/Running is so good for stress, quiet time with the Lord, and here is a little secret ... the more you run, the more you can eat :) Its better to burn calories than count them.. Now can I get an AMEN?
Still not convinced?

4. Because there is one who finished their race well. Gracie ran with endurance and she finished well. Lets honor her, while we run/walk and even pray as we do this together.