Member Profile – Yizreel Urquijo Torres
Preferred Name: Yizreel Torres
Pronouns: He/Him
Where did you grow up?: In Mexico City
Profession: Real Estate & Management Consultant
Education: Master’s of Arts in Social Sciences (Global Studies) from the University of Freiburg (Germany), Bachelor ‘s in International Relations from the National Autonomous University of Mexico
Member Since: Summer 2017
Favorite Route: Rock Creek Park & The Two Bridges
Bet You Didn’t Know: I’ve lived in a few countries, namely Mexico, the US, Iceland, Germany, Australia, India, and South Africa.
Meet Yizreel Urquijo Torres
Why did you join the DC Front Runners?
When I moved to DC and found out about DC Front Runners through Jacques Lecuyer, I was interested in running with the group, making new friends, and challenging myself to run longer distances.
Why is the DC Front Runners important to you?
In addition to all the health benefits of running, both physically and mentally, running with a group that welcomes everyone across the LGBTQ community and allies, and where you can make new friends, it’s very important to me to feel part of a community where we are valued and respected.
Why and when did you start running?
I started running when I was probably around 11. Everyone in my family played tennis and I was more attracted to short distances, particularly 100m dash. When I was in middle school I joined the track & field team and ever since I’ve had a passion for running. Since joining DCFR I’ve been more interested in running longer distances.
Do you have a favorite memory or story from the DC Front Runners?
When I was at the holiday party in December 2019, I remember talking to friends there and thinking how nice the group is and how welcomed I’ve felt since I joined and the friends that I’ve made. That continues to inspire me to run with DCFR every Saturday.
What was your first race ever? And your favorite race?
My first race ever was in middle school, I did 100m dash. My favorite race is the Pride Run in DC. I love the spirit of the race, everyone’s happy, having fun, cheering their friends, there’s music and it reminds me of the great community we’ve formed in DC.
What are your non-running activities and hobbies?
I do yoga almost daily as it helps me in so many ways. I also like swimming, cycling, and going to the movies. One of my favorite things to do is to travel and learn from different cultures, their worldview, a bit of their language, history, food, and the things we all have in common as part of the human race.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received with regards to running?
To challenge myself to run longer distances even when I didn’t think I’d be good at it or that I’d enjoy it. Stepping out of my comfort zone has helped me become a faster and more consistent runner.
What big race or challenges are you planning for the next year with regards to running?
I’m planning on doing two 10 milers next year, most likely the Cherry Blossom and Army Ten Miler, and completing the Circuit.
Is there anything else that you would like to add?
Thank you to DCFR for the space you provide for everyone to join and share our passion for running, but most importantly to feel welcomed and valued as members of the LGBTQ+ community, and to make new friends.