Redondo Beach Marathoner to Ride on Kaiser Permanente Rose Parade Float

In 1995, Rolando Patricio Vera Rodas of Ecuador took first place at the Los Angeles Marathon.  This moment forever changed the life of a little Ecuadorian-American girl who swore to one day run a marathon.  A few years later, alongside her father Jorge, at the young age of 14, Nadia Ruiz Gonzales ran her first marathon.  Now, 29 years old, the veteran marathoner – with almost 110 races to her credit – is among the youngest and fastest Latina runners in the world to complete 100 marathons.

The Angelino native, born at the Kaiser Permanente Bellflower Medical Center, says that running has completely transformed her life.  She’s a true believer in total health and says that in order to stay healthy and be competitive, you have to “stay positive (mental health), eat right (physical health), and remain balanced (emotional and spiritual health).”  As a teacher, she shares that message with her students as well!

Nadia’s personal health motto, “I strongly believe that when we live our passion, each day becomes a blessing. My passion is in all aspects of health; to teach it, coach it, and live it. Be healthy, be happy.”

Her next fitness goal? Ultramarathons! Nadia is currently training for the Avalon Benefit 50 Mile Run scheduled for January 11th, 2014.

Listen to Nadia Ruiz Gonzales talk about the role running has played in her life: http://on.fb.me/19tFCgh