The connections you make through the running community are a beautiful thing and we're glad to have met Nati Rose through our good friend, Miss Outside herself, Yvonne Zapata. After meeting Ms. Rose, we became instantly inspired by her positivity, her will to persist, and the deep, soulful connection she has to the sport of running.
As Nati goes for her 6th star in one year this Monday at the Boston Marathon, we spoke to Nati about her decision to go after this admirable goal, her roots in the sports, and her advice for anyone look to chase goals themselves.
Tell us about yourself (name, neighborhood, run club, etc.)
I’m Natalia aka Nati. I'm an Ecuadorian born & raised in Brooklyn and now a centrally located Harlemite who “runs” everywhere. My run crew family is Mile Style - a collective of passionate runners who give back & run throughout the South Bronx Hunts Point Community. I’m not your traditional runner as run/walking is my super power. I’m an ambitious adrenaline junky & I’ve gone from zero to 60 in two years, clocking well over 2K training miles, completed 9 marathons, a boat load of 5K’s & half marathons. Two years ago my journey started at an 18 minute mile & now thanks to the run crews & my self discipline I’m able to run/walk between 10 to 12 minute miles on a good day. I’m constantly pushing past pain & don’t let my reconstructed knee stop me. I’m a proud back of the packer training at sexy party pace. I’m very excited & curious to continue to tap into my potential.
When/How did you get into the sport of running? What has it done for you?
I got into running during the pandemic. The world was falling apart & so was the life I had known. An odd spiral caused me to suffer from anxiety and depression so running quickly became my safe haven. It gave me a landscape where I was able to move, cry, think & be grateful that I had another day to breathe. Running became the therapy I never knew I needed, full of endorphins, adrenaline & self love. Running has given me a renewed sense of the three “C’s” calm , confidence & community.
How did you decide to run all 6 majors in 12 months?
I learned about the Abbott World Marathon Majors November 2022. In April 2023, I ran my 1st official major because I read the fine print & checked a box after receiving an initial London Marathon Charity rejection. So through a combination of lottery luck, qualification & passionate charity fundraising, all the stars aligned & the decision was made for me. Now, I’m running for my 6th star on April 15th, 2024. I’d like to think that fate had a hand in my 6 star entries, but I think it's really due to my can do, will do attitude that fueled my passion to keep my eye on the prize with slow & steady discipline & faith.
How has the running community played a role in your running journey?
My running journey has been exponentially enhanced by the running community. I'm a low key extroverted/introvert who used to run, train & explore routes alone, playing everything by ear. The running community changed all that by providing love, support & the safety to explore our beautiful city & the world. "Runcations” are my new favorite pass time.
Crew love is a real thing & I’m forever grateful to explore the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens & Brooklyn with Mile Style, Boogie Down Bronx Runners, Bronx Femme Run, Bronx Sole, Bronx Nomads, Mott Haven Runners Of Color, Harlem Run, Galloway, NYC Dragons, We Run Uptown, Latinas in Motion, Latinas/Latinos Run, Girls that Run, WEPA, The Wepona’s, GFTC, TeamWRK & Women Makes Moves... to name a few.
Tell us about your charity. How’d you choose them, why are they meaningful to you?
As a Badass Boston Charity Fundraising Unicorn, I’m a proud member of the 261 Fearless Team. In 2022 during a run I spotted a 261 Fearless inclusive shirt depicting women of all shapes & colors which initially piqued my interest. Once I learned about Kathrine Switzer (first official registered female Boston Marathon finisher) & her mission to empower women of all abilities through education & running; I was locked in. For my Boston Marathon I knew this back of the packer would not BQ, but I also knew I only wanted to run & raise awareness for 261 Fearless. I took a huge risk as they are the one & only charity I applied for & just as I chose them, they chose me...it was kismet. My target $9K fundraising goal is within reach; however, I still need help so please consider donating to help break down geography barriers and create a global supportive running community.
Who’s the first person you’re seeing after you finish Boston?
Once I wipe the tears of joy from my eyes, the first person I’ll be seeing after I finish the Boston Marathon will most likely be a volunteer who will give me a smile & my well earned Boston Marathon Finisher Medal & the coveted 6 Star Finisher Medal. Thanks to FaceTime, my grandmother will undoubtedly be the first person I want to share my accomplishment with. Then I look forward to celebrating with all who ventured & conquered Boston as well as celebrating with my family & friends once I return home to NYC.
Where do you go from 6 stars? What’s next?
After my 6 stars, I intend to go to Disney Land to run the Dopey Challenge in 2025. I also want to embark on completing my 50 States Half Marathon Journey by my 50th Birthday which would be super cool, but I’m also happy to finish when I finish. I'll also continue my efforts to give back to the community by volunteering, leading Diversity, Equity & Inclusion initiatives & fundraising for causes that are close to my heart.
Any parting advice or words of wisdom for those thinking about running, chasing after goals, etc.?
My advice to those thinking of running is ...we all learn to crawl before we walk so give yourself the grace to evolve because this sport is so much more than speed. One step at a time, move forward by educating & fueling your mind & body. Don’t compare yourself to others; your journey is yours. Listen to your body so you can be the best version of you today. If you have goals, don’t just wish for them or expect them to be handed to you. Make them come true; visualize, plan & execute. Most importantly love yourself, make sure to have fun, & remember that, together we achieve more, so when needed ask for help & move forward fearlessly.
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Thank you so much to Nati Rose for chatting with us, and wish her luck as she heads to the starting line for Boston!
