Finding the Spark: How Sharon Tejada Discovered Her Passion for Running and Giving Back

In 2016, Sharon Tejada set out to complete a simple goal – running a marathon. As a self-proclaimed non-runner who “hated running,” the idea of crossing a marathon off her bucket list was more of a chore than a passion. “I had a life plan all laid out,” Sharon remembers, “and running a marathon was just something I wanted to check off the list before never running again.” Sharon could not imagine being on an inspiring running journey.

Determined to achieve this personal milestone, Sharon followed a free online training program. She squeezed in runs whenever she could between her busy college schedule. She initially found running groups intimidating but running can be lonely at times. To combat that loneliness, Sharon would occasionally bribe friends to join her on short runs to cafes around Berkeley.

A Surprising Transformation

When Sharon crossed the finish line of that first marathon, she was surprised by the mix of emotions she felt. “Part of me was just amazed by how many people were there doing this hard thing. There was another part of me was thinking, ‘Why?'” she recalls. Despite her initial aversion to running, Sharon found herself drawn to the accomplishment she experienced.

Fueled by the shiny, oversized medal and the prospect of earning an additional “spinning medal” for completing the race two years in a row, Sharon signed up again in 2017. This time, however, her training was less disciplined, and she found the final miles much more challenging. “I was definitely less trained the second time around,” she admits, “but I was still amazed and inspired at the start line.”

Discovering the Welcoming Philly Running Community

Sharon’s move to Philadelphia in 2021 proved to be a pivotal moment in her running journey. Drawn to the city’s vibrant running scene, she joined Team Philly Race Training. What she discovered was a supportive and inclusive community that embraced runners of all abilities. “Through Team Philly, I just started looking for run clubs near me or that seemed interesting. I found that the vast majority of the run clubs in Philly are quite inclusive,” Sharon explains.

Immersing herself in the Philly running community, Sharon found herself running with various groups throughout the week. She began building connections and learning about the diverse array of clubs in the area. “I did almost all of my training miles in groups,” she says, “and that really shifted my mindset from just trying to get a medal to genuinely enjoying the camaraderie and community.”

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Becoming a Pillar of Inclusivity

Sharon’s involvement in the Philly running community quickly blossomed. Before long, she found herself in a leadership role with Queer Run, a group dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ athletes. “I was a bit hesitant at first because I don’t identify as queer myself,” Sharon explains, “but I was inspired by the idea of supporting and uplifting a community that I’m an ally to.”

Alongside her co-leader Josh, Sharon navigated the challenges of maintaining Queer Run’s mission during a tumultuous period marked by changes in the group’s leadership. “We stopped focusing on expansion and marketing, and just put all of our energy into making sure Queer Run stayed a safe and inclusive space for queer folks and allies to move their bodies,” she says.

Through their collaborative efforts, Sharon and Josh fostered a sense of belonging and community. This sense of belonging has created inspiring running journeys for many of the club members. This is something that Sharon takes great pride in.

To help create memorable journeys, Sharon often takes on the role of the “party pacer,” ensuring that no one was left behind. “I try to be that person who gravitates towards the folks in the back or the newer runners,” Sharon shares, “because I know how important it is to feel supported, especially in the beginning.”

Empowering Others Through Coaching

Sharon’s dedication to supporting and uplifting underrepresented runners led her to pursue a run coaching certification through the Game Changers program. “I had heard about Game Changers, but I never really looked into it because I didn’t think I needed to be a run coach,” she says. “But then I met the founder, Vanessa C. Peralta-Mitchell, and I was just really inspired by her story and mission.”

With her newly acquired certification, Sharon is now poised to make an even greater impact within the running community. “I’m excited to use this certification to help newer runners. I am especially looking forward to working with women of color. Helping them learn good habits and get started on their running journey,” she explains. “I want to be that resource and support system that I wish I had when I first started out.”

The Road Ahead

As Sharon continues her running journey, her focus has shifted from personal accomplishments to empowering and supporting others. She dreams of qualifying for the Boston Marathon but that isn’t the driving force for her running. Her true passion lies in making endurance sports accessible and welcoming to all. “I want to continue this journey of making the Philly running community more inclusive,” she says, “and I’d love to learn more about why we don’t see more Asian athletes in the sport. And to be specific, especially Asian women.”

With her commitment to community, Sharon Tejada is proving that her inspiring running journey extends far beyond the finish line. “I’ve had this dramatic shift in my own running journey,” she reflects. Sharon knows how much the running community can give to someone. Her goal is to help them find the right space so that they can grow.

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