Brian Blakely, San Marcos, CA - PATH projects KREW
My name is Brian Blakely, I'm 31 years old and I live in San Marcos, CA. In 2018 I was in an ATV accident in the desert and lost my right arm—that experience naturally led me to running and staying consistent with running. It's the most natural, fulfilling way for me to release energy. I come from a skateboarding background but have genuinely fallen in love with running the last three years. At this point, it's just an extension of myself and it has helped me immensely during this wild transition! But hey, no complaints here.
Running accomplishment(s) you are proud of
It's vague but the progress I've seen in the last three to four months feels like an accomplishment to me. Mile after mile, each run seems to feel better than the last and my motivation feels like it's at an all time high. I want to smash a few marathons this year—official or unofficial—but I just want to keep the momentum up and keep logging miles!.
Any races or adventures on your horizon and / or bucket list?
I have a camping trip planned up the 395 later this year to hit some trails and views between Lone Pine and Mammoth Lakes—that area is one of my favorite places to explore and I plan on spending a few days running, camping and relaxing. Besides that, I'm just always racing myself on the streets or on the trails!
Your favorite PATH projects gear?
The Sykes PX short is honestly all time! But it wouldn't be fair not to mention the Graves PX short either, because they're both genuinely comfortable, they give me all the mobility and durability I need and they just look and feel dope! They're more than my running shorts, I rock them every day. There's no miss with these shorts!
What do you enjoy about running?
That feeling that I usually get right after mile 1, when I feel like I can just keep going—that's a huge part of my every day running experience. I can have a heap of stuff on my mind (work, life, family) and all it takes is a step out the door, pick up a little speed and everything is somehow left behind in afterthought. I love the physical aspect of running, and health is very important to me, but it's really the mental part of it that I love and respect. That's the part that has helped me so much! It can be as simple as it is challenging, the beauty is, it's up to us! And lastly, the simple curiosity for adventure; the freedom. I love being outside, seeing new things and feeling good.
Advice for runners looking to improve?
The only thing I can say is stay consistent—consistency is so important! But at the end of the day, all I can suggest is to just have fun.
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Find out more about Brian on his Instagram.
Learn about all other KREW members HERE.