TeresitaGonzalez

Her running journey began in 2018 with Team for Kids when she took on the TCS New York City Marathon for the first time. After crossing the finish line, she returned as a mentor and has been guiding new runners ever since. Over the years, running has become a family affair‚ each year she’s inspired loved ones to go from the grandstands to the start line. In 2024, she proudly crossed the  TCS New York City Marathon finish line alongside her brother and mother, and in 2025, her younger sister will be joining the tradition. 

A former soccer forward who once avoided distance running, her path changed after undergoing multiple knee reconstruction surgeries. What began as a personal challenge has grown into a deep commitment to helping others discover the joy of running. With the support of NYRR Team for Kids, and her running community, she reached a major milestone in 2025: becoming an Abbott World Marathon Majors Six Star Finisher. Now, she continues to share her passion by mentoring runners at every stage of their journey.

How would you describe your coaching style?

My coaching style blends evidence-based training methods with a deep respect for the body’s need to rest and recover. I believe peak performance comes not just from hard work, but from smart work, guided by data, intuition, and care.

What is your proudest coaching moment?

In 2024, I had the incredible honor of crossing the New York City Marathon finish line hand in hand with my brother and my mom. She is proof that it's never too late to set new goals, and to challenge yourself.

What is your favorite workout to coach and why?

 I enjoy coaching run/walk intervals to beginners because I love witnessing their transformation. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a runner follow a structured plan‚ starting with just 30 seconds of running and gradually building up to minutes and eventually miles. The sense of accomplishment they feel at each milestone is incredibly fulfilling, and it brings me so much joy to support them on that journey.

Please list any awards, achievements, or certifications below. This can be sports and/or coaching certifications.

RRCA Level 1 

6 Star Abbott World Major Marathon  Finisher

Where is your favorite place to run in New York City?

In Astoria Park along the water.

What is your favorite NYRR race?

New York City Marathon. I grew up on 4th Avenue in Sunset Park, where marathon day was the day of the year where my siblings and I would line up on the streets, offering high fives to runners who passed by.

What is your personal running motto?  

My love and emotional strength empower me to face challenges and self-doubt with courage. Rooted in my cultural identity and committed to my personal journey, I run with pride and purpose, embracing each step and looking ahead to wherever the path may lead.