Q&A | Olympic Trails Qualifier: David Fuentes
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.
Boulder Underground
What is your “day” job?
David
Owner of Tin Can Travel Co. (vintage van rental) & Software Engineer (day job).
Boulder Underground
When and where did you run your OTQ?
David
Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon in June 2019.
Boulder Underground
What is your marathon PR?
David
Slow haha. Jogging in a 2:23.
Boulder Underground
Have you qualified for the Olympic Trials before?
David
Yes in 2016.
Boulder Underground
What event and when?
David
Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon in June of 2014.
Boulder Underground
What did running the OTQ feel like?
David
Elated, and satisfied because it proved to me that I actually was that fast.
Boulder Underground
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.
Boulder Underground
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.
Boulder Underground
Who are your favorite training partners?
David
I typically train by myself, but we have a big Sunday run group that I really enjoy.
Boulder Underground
What’s been your favorite part of this training block?
David
Probably eating after the workouts. Also getting in some longer Sunday runs.
Boulder Underground
What have you worked really hard on during this training block?
David
Trying to stay healthy lol.
Boulder Underground
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!
Boulder Underground
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.
Boulder Underground
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.
Boulder Underground
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.