Name: Rafael Plata

City: Chicago, Illinois

Profession: Hospitality Bartender

Fundraising Goal: $2,000

Race Goal: 4:30 hrs

In a few sentences, describe your connection to U2FP, why you chose to run in support of U2FP, and whether you have a personal connection to spinal cord injury and paralysis:

I have met people with paralysis and it is difficult to lead a normal life, I consider myself a healthy person and I thank God for that and for this reason it is a pleasant pleasure to contribute my grain of sand, all of us together do more and what better with this organization and team whose beautiful goal is always to help and change lives for a better well-being.

Is this your first marathon/race? If not, what others have you completed?

It will be my first marathon. I’ve completed three half marathons, one 10k and one 5k.

What do you crave after a long run?

A big bowl of noodles and fried rice.

Do you listen to anything when you train or race? If yes, what?

When I walk I like to listen to what’s around me or I listen to podcasts about the impact that food has on our body, when I do weight training I listen to circuit music, and for races I listen to covers or remixes or sometimes I just like to hear the applause of people that encourages me to continue.

What are you most excited and/or nervous about for the marathon?

I feel a little nervous because it will be my first marathon and I know that I have to give double the performance compared to my previous half marathons. On the other hand, I feel excited because I will participate in one of the main marathons in the world and every time I think about this race, which is important to me, I imagine reaching the finish line receiving my medal. That gives me a lot of emotion and joy.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I love vegan cuisine, I love cooking and discovering new recipes, I spend many hours in the gym strengthening my condition and my bones, I love and enjoy traveling, learning about the beautiful landscapes and cultures that exist on this wonderful planet.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I thank this organization for allowing me to contribute to them and for their great mission of changing lives and bringing joy to all those people, the world needs more of this.

Favorite movie: Diane Lane “Under the Tuscan Sun”