For #FeatureFriday, Team DC talked with Kevin Romeo Ortiz Arias about his experience with DC Front Runners.

Team DC: How long have you played the sport or participated in the activity of your Team DC member club?

Kevin Romeo Ortiz Arias: I have been with the DC Front Runners since 2017. I have been a long-distance runner since I was 15 years old. That’s 13 years worth of milage to look back on.

TDC: When did you first start playing/participating?

KROA: I played sports as a kid. My first cross country meet was when I was 14.

TDC: What advice do you offer LGBTQ+ youth who are interested in your sport/activity?

KROA: Don’t be afraid to fail. My first meet in high school I came in dead last after getting terribly lost on the route. I was also a little chubbier than you expect from cross country runners. I persevered despite the judgment and tensions of being one of the few Latinos on the team. It seemed everything was stacked against me. Once I stopped putting extra pressure on myself I finished the season strong and was awarded the MIP award (Most Improved Player) and was proud to have lost 30lbs. Had I given up or gave into the pressure of not being good enough I may never have improved. It’s not about being THE best, it’s about being YOUR best. Over 10 years later, I’m still finding ways to improve and loving every step I take when out running.

TDC: What is your favorite part of being a member of an LGBTQ+ team?

KROA: The camaraderie is like no other. Being able to talk about the sport that you love with folks who have also struggled through similar issues solidifies the bonds of the team.