How/when did you start running? Over the years I have always run on and off, but I didn't get more serious until I moved back to San Antonio about 4 years ago and I was able to go running with my sisters. In fact, my first 5k in San Antonio was the Mascarita Run and it was so much fun! After that, I was hooked and I just challenged myself to keep running further and faster. I kept entering in all of the Andiamo races and I ran my first half marathon in 2019.

Andrea finishing her first half-marathon in 2019!

What inspires you to be active? My family really inspires me to stay active. I love them so much and I want to be around for a long time to enjoy life with them. I hope that I inspire them too.

What lessons have you learned from running? Running has really taught me that I am stronger both physically and mentally than I thought I was. Some days are better than others. Some runs are faster and longer than others, but my marathoner aunt always tells me "It doesn't matter how fast or slow, as long as you go". I've never had a run I regretted. And I love that running gives me a sense of freedom especially during these difficult times.

What’s your favorite place to run? My absolute favorite place to run is the Mission Reach trail and downtown. San Antonio is so beautiful and running has given me the opportunity to see so many fascinating areas of the city and enjoy so many sights.

How has the Andiamo challenges motivated/inspired/supported you during these past months? I really am so grateful for the Andiamo challenges over the last year. The run group on Strava really motivates me and everyone is so supportive. It has given me something to look forward to every month and it pushes me to keep trying and to keep improving. I love seeing where everyone is running and their accomplishments as well. I miss the human connection, but I know soon we'll all be able to race in person again.

Andrea has ran many of the Andiamo Races and has also completed all the Andiamo Mile Challenges since last March! Thanks for being part of the Andiamo running community, Andrea! ¡Muchas gracias por ser parte de nuestra comunidad! #Keepruning #keepgoing #yocorroeveryday

My Running Story: Andrea Kohnert

CONTACT