Mother and Son Inspire Each Other to Keep Running

For NYRR members Olga Flores and Gabe Romero, running is not only an important part of their lives but also a way for them to support one another. Gabe has been working at the NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub since 2022 and encouraged his mother, Olga, to start running too. We asked the mother and son duo about what drew them to the sport in the first place and what keeps them going.

What first made you fall in love with running?

Olga: The freedom of mind and spirit it gives me. It helps me realize I can overcome any challenge and stay healthy and positive at the same time.

Gabe: I believe running is the great equalizer, it doesn’t matter where you come from or what you have, it’s all about moving forward as best you can and the memories you make along the way (just like life).

What’s some advice you could share with beginner runners?

Olga: Be strong, be positive! No matter what the challenge is you keep going and don’t give up.

Gabe: Run your own race. Don’t worry about what anyone else is doing. You go at your own pace. With any goal or race, it doesn’t matter how slow you are going. As long as you are headed in the right direction, you will get there with determination and patience.

For Gabe: What is it like running with your mom and how do you support each other?

Running with my mom has been a blessing and I'm so proud of her mental fortitude and positive outlook. She has been my number-one supporter from day one so it’s a lot of fun to be able to return the favor and cheer for her at races. She supports me by making sure I eat and sleep better and I support her by handling all her race logistics like sign-up and traveling to the races.

For Olga: What is it like running with your son and how do you support each other?

It has been great running with my son, he has been and continues to be an inspiration to me for all he has accomplished in his running career here and around the world.

How has being an NYRR member influenced your life?

Olga: It has made me alert and aware of the healthier lifestyle that anyone can have. The excitement of being a member of NYRR and running with so many people from different backgrounds all coming together for a common goal.

Gabe: Since I began road racing with NYRR in my late teens the races have become an important part of my life as I can always count on the experience to be a rewarding one and for running to always be a great way for me to cope with the challenges of life and bring me peace. Seeing new members go from running their very first race to qualifying for the NYC Marathon always has a special place in my heart.