Runners hit their stride at TSC’s Historic Run and Half Marathon

Runners of all ages and skills levels made their way to Texas Southmost College (TSC) to take part in the school’s Historic Run and Half Marathon. The event gave participants an opportunity to run through TSC’s scenic and historic Fort Brown campus.

Thirteen-year-old Pavel Cruz was the first person to cross the finish line in the 5K race.

Cruz was cheered on by family members and spectators as he claimed first place with a time of 19:56. He finished 40 seconds ahead of second place runner Ivan Martinez. Luis Espinoza rounded out the podium with a time of 22:15.

Cynthia Espinoza took first place in the women’s 5K race in 23:47.

The race was an emotional one for Espinoza, who ran in honor of her daughter, Rosa Isela Espinosa, who died in February.

“I wanted to be [the first] overall female for a while and I finally got there,” said Espinoza, who ran the race with a shirt featuring an image of her daughter. “I know I wouldn’t have been able to cross that line if it wasn’t for her motivating me to get up and do something when I feel like not doing anything.”

Monica Robles Moreno took second place with a time of 27:04. Angelica Gutierrez finished third in 27:10.

Ian Andreas won first place in the half marathon in 1:30.51.

Denise Nuñez was the first woman to finish the half marathon with a time of 1:57.28.

“I love the course,” Nuñez said. “I love the history. I love the views. It was a very nice course.”

Luis Aranda and Brian Aranda won the half marathon relay in 1:54.30.

TSC’s Historic Run and Half Marathon is one of the many events the school is hosting this year to celebrate its 100th anniversary.

The next centennial celebration event will be the Play Day at the Zoo held at Gladys Porter Zoo on Sunday, April 19.