Name: Ximena Mancilla Delgado
Number of Marathons/Half-Marathons Run: 1 Half Marathon in Boston
How many years have you been a Chicago SoleMate: First Year!
Why do you run for Girls on the Run - Chicago?
I migrated to the United States when I was 11 years old. I started school in 6th grade and was not used to the education system and new lifestyle. In 8th grade, I was introduced to Girls on the Run, to mentors, and to running. I actually ran my first 5k with Girls on the Run with my teacher, who I saw recently (see photo attached), so making memories that years later we are still able to connect makes running for them worth it.
Being able to raise money for girls to have the same experience and opportunities as me is great and knowing that in a few years, the running experiences might lead them to run their own marathon! Without even realizing it, GOTR changed my life on so many levels that 10 years later, I am still reaping the benefits by running and connecting with mentors.
Throughout the years, I have been running every so often, but last year I trained for the Boston Athletic Association Distance Medley which consists of running a 5K, 10K and half marathon which helped me so much to destress while being in graduate school. It helped me take care of myself and be active at my own pace.
Knowing that girls can see all the people running for this cause for different reasons, and in different paths of life, it can show them that this is your own path, you get to decide what you want to do but know that there’s always support and people around you that want you to succeed and be happy!
What’s your favorite song to listen to while running?
My favorite song to listen to while running is “Salio el Sol” by Don Omar. Starting with a hype song can help set the tone for the run.
What’s the best or funniest moment you’ve had while running?
The best moment that I had while running was running the 5k in Boston. During this 5k, you get to cross the marathon finish line and see all the set up since it’s the Saturday before the race. You get to see all the runners going to the expo and feel the energy for that Monday. This year I am running the 5k again and it will actually end at the Boston Marathon finish line so it is exciting!
What would you tell your 10-year-old self about working toward a big goal?
If I could talk to my 10-year old self I would tell her: You are so smart and capable of anything you set your mind to. Lean on your loved ones, it is okay to ask for help and always remember to be kind. Everything will work out in the end.
What running advice do you have for the participants in our program?
Listen to your body and know you will get stronger! Do not give up walking, it's okay. The journey will be amazing and you will grow so much mentally, physically and know that you are capable of so much!
Any words of advice for your fellow teammates?
We got this! The hardwork is the training, so make sure you are leaning on your friends and loved ones when training gets intense. It will all be worth it once you are running and crossing the finish line. This will push us and help us grow in so many ways and remember you are stronger than you ever thought possible. When you are running the marathon, make sure you leave some miles to listen to the crowd cheering you on. From all the races I have witnessed, Chicago takes the crown, there are so many people cheering at every corner so when you feel like giving up, lean on them, and make sure you are listening to your body. There will always be support around to make sure you get to the finish line.
