Patty
Bronx, NY
I started running to survive stress and mental exhaustion, one step at a time. Along the way, it became a powerful way to inspire my son and other Cub Scouts with special needs to move, believe in themselves, and never give up. Today, running reminds me that my body is capable of far more than I ever imagined—and that perseverance can change lives, starting with our own.
I'm running The Speed Project because of the extreme distance, the demanding landscape, and the breathtaking views—but more than anything, because it is the ultimate test of self. It challenges your willpower, your friendships, your ability to navigate different personalities, and your wisdom to find strength in the hardest moments.
Why The Speed Project
The Speed Project means belonging to something bigger than myself—an inclusive team of 10 women from different cultures, body types, paces, and running levels, all moving toward the same goal. What excites me most is the trust we build and the strength we draw from one another. I want other women to know that when we move forward together, there is no limit to how far we can go—especially when surrounded by powerful women who refuse to quit.
Building Community
I've lived and worked in the Bronx for many years, but I didn't truly know its community until I joined a running club. Running showed me how one sport can connect people—learning the streets and neighborhoods on foot, running through places I once felt afraid to walk alone, and feeling the unexpected support of strangers along the way, no matter the age. Through this experience, I want to keep building community by reminding others that movement can break barriers and bring us together.
Quick Q&A
Get to know Patty
What's your go-to pre-run fuel?
I'm Ecuadorian, so plantains the night before are always a go-to for me. Right now, I'm training my stomach to handle one or two bites of a bagel about an hour before my run—it's definitely a work in progress.
What's the weirdest thing you've seen on a run?
Two years ago, during the Brooklyn Mile—my very first year of running—I was shocked by how serious everyone was. Racing shoes, perfectly matched outfits, expensive sports bras… and there I was in a regular T-shirt and simple running shoes, mentally adding up how much a single race outfit must cost. Then a topless female runner passed me on the right, and I had to look three times to make sure I was seeing it correctly—and that's when I told myself, with my budget, the next topless lady will be me.
Best running advice you've ever received?
Do you. Your pace, your time, your body. Don't compare to others.
What's your power song?
Ah, two classics with totally different vibes—love it! 🎧🔥 "Gangsta's Paradise" has that slow, almost cinematic intensity—perfect for those runs where I need to dig deep and push through fatigue. "No Sleep till Brooklyn" is pure adrenaline—great for sprint finishes or when I want to just let loose and feel unstoppable.
What keeps you going when it gets tough?
I often imagine running alongside my son, who has asthma. In my mind, I talk to him, saying things like, 'Let's go, easy… easy… one step at a time. Breathe. That's great—take your time.'
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