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Everyone is Welcome: The Whittier Pacers 

Everyone is Welcome

In the heart of Whittier, California, a running club is making waves not just for its miles covered, but for the community it’s building. The Whittier Pacers, led by club president Monica Bobadilla, is more than just a group of runners – it’s a family where everyone is welcome, regardless of pace or experience.

From Injury to Inspiration

Monica’s journey to leading the Whittier Pacers wasn’t a straight path. She started running with the Pasadena Pacers in 2013, quickly progressing from a beginner to running marathons. But an injury threatened to end her running career. “I got injured and I was told I couldn’t run anymore until we figured out what was happening,” Monica recalls. “That quickly brought on depression because I couldn’t be out there with my friends.”

Instead of giving up, Monica found a new way to stay involved. She set up a mobile water station for her fellow runners, surprising them with support and snacks during their long runs. This act of kindness grew into something bigger, laying the foundation for her future leadership role.

A New Chapter in Whittier

When the opportunity arose to start a Pacers chapter in Whittier, Monica was appointed president. Despite being an introvert who gets shy easily, she embraced the challenge. Monica brought her experiences from Pasadena to Whittier, with a few key changes. She introduced the concept of “pacer love,” ensuring that every runner, no matter how slow, feels supported and celebrated. “I stay there until the very last runner comes in,” Monica explains. “That way they’ll have somebody there to acknowledge what they’ve done, to celebrate what they accomplished.”

A Club for Everyone

The Whittier Pacers meet three times a week, offering programs for runners and walkers of all levels. From beginners to experienced marathoners, there’s a place for everyone. “We have our most seasoned pacer at 82,” Monica shares proudly. “And we have our younger ones, which are five and six years old. Everyone is welcomed.”

The club’s walking program has been particularly successful, growing beyond initial expectations. “Our original group had a plan to walk no more than 6 miles on any given day,” Monica says. “And it soon turned into some of them wanting to walk half marathons.”

Building Community Beyond the Miles

The Whittier Pacers are about more than just running. The club organizes monthly “pacer shakers” – social events where members meet for dinner and drinks after their run. “When I look at the tables and who’s sitting with who, it’s when I know everyone is everyone’s friend,” Monica says. “I love that we could do that.”

This sense of community has helped the club weather challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. “Day one after Covid was so beautiful. There were so many people,” Monica remembers.


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The Power of Support

At the core of the Whittier Pacers’ success is the unwavering support they offer each member. Monica understands that people join running clubs for various reasons, from simple exercise to coping with depression. A single mother who is not a natural athlete, she understands the need for community for the everyday athlete.

“I think it’s important that we support each other, that we encourage each other to move forward, to keep going,” she explains. “I associate running with dealing with life a lot, and that’s a message I share with our group quite often.”

This support extends to all paces, with a particular focus on slower runners who might otherwise feel left behind. “I’m not a fast runner,” Monica admits. “I don’t understand the speed of things. I do understand the support part.”

Looking to the Future

As the Whittier Pacers continue to grow, Monica remains committed to fostering a welcoming environment for all. Monica is quick to credit the team that makes it all possible: “None of this would be possible without our amazing coaches. All volunteers with the heart to help guide others and support them on their journey. I’m truly grateful for them.” For anyone considering joining the Whittier Pacers, Monica’s message is clear: “Everyone is welcome. It doesn’t matter – age, experience, ability. We’re there.”

In a world that can often feel divided, the Whittier Pacers stand as a shining example of what’s possible when a community comes together, one step at a time. Whether you’re chasing a new personal record or simply looking for a supportive group to walk with, you’ll find a home with the Whittier Pacers. With the Pacers, everyone is welcome.

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Everyone is Welcome
President: Monica Bobadilla