Finding Support with Every Stride
In 2020, Embarcadero YMCA Member, Droth Thompson, joined the Chinatown New Year Run after rediscovering her passion for running through the support of Embarcadero’s personal trainer Ernie Batongmalaque.
“I joined the Embarcadero YMCA for shoulder rehab 8 years ago, and eventually met personal trainer, Ernie, who turned me into a senior athlete. Ernie was able to help me fully recover from my injury and re-introduce me to the joy of running. At age 58, Ernie and I and began running along the Embarcadero waterfront using training techniques to strengthen my balance and agility to avoid further injuries.
The Chinatown New Year Run was the first race I ran since getting back into running. Since then and through the pandemic, I compete in several virtual races, actively run 7 miles a week, and inspire many of my friends to get back into running. What motivates me to continue running each week is the workouts Ernie provided me to improve my running ability. I look forward to this year’s Chinatown “Year of the Ox” race.”
For the past 43 years the Chinatown YMCA hosts the annual CCHP Chinese New Year Run. The history of this race originally started as a marathon and has transformed into a 5K and 10K race. It is the only race in San Francisco that has a race course go through Chinatown, North Beach, and Financial District neighborhoods. Over 1,200 runners from all over the Bay Area come together to participate in this historic community event.
Learn more about Chinatown YMCA’s 43rd Annual CCHP New Year Run.