Q&A | Olympic Trails Qualifier: David Fuentes

 
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Our countdown to the trials continues and so do our OTQ 2020 O&As with our athletes running in the in Atlanta on February 29. So far we’ve Q&A’d with Kelsey Beckmann, Enoch Nadler and Bria Wetsch. Next up is David Fuentes. He trains in Austin, Texas.

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What is your “day” job?

David

Owner of Tin Can Travel Co. (vintage van rental) & Software Engineer (day job).

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When and where did you run your OTQ?

David

Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon in June 2019.

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What is your marathon PR?

David

Slow haha. Jogging in a 2:23.

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Have you qualified for the Olympic Trials before?

David

Yes in 2016.

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What event and when?

David 

Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon in June of 2014.

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What did running the OTQ feel like?

David

Elated, and satisfied because it proved to me that I actually was that fast.

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What was the most difficult part of running the OTQ?

David

I didn't find much of the race itself that difficult. I would say the anticipation leading into it. I wanted to qualify and not have to do a last chance meet for the trials.

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What was the most exciting part of running the OTQ?

David

The last three miles. I felt like I was on cruise control. It was nice to know that my body wasn’t shutting down after running multiple PRs in the actual race.

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Who are your favorite training partners?

David

I typically train by myself, but we have a big Sunday run group that I really enjoy.

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What’s been your favorite part of this training block?

David

Probably eating after the workouts. Also getting in some longer Sunday runs.

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What have you worked really hard on during this training block?

David

Trying to stay healthy lol.

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Who are the members of your “team” and their roles?

David

My wife, family, and friends are my team. Also my coach Matt Hensley, who is a great coach!

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What is your goal for the Trials?

David

To be satisfied knowing I did everything I could on that day, and on this buildup to the trials.

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What will you be most excited about on the start line?

David

I will be excited if my body lets me run to my potential.

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What would you consider a good day on February 29?

David

Winning. But if I can't win the race, then probably a huge PR and a high placed finish.


You can follow David on his running journey on Instagram @davidfuent.

Editor’s note: this Q&A has been edited for length and clarity.