Marty Schnapp news editor

Special education teacher and BHEA President Telly Tse ran the L.A. Marathon on March 15.
He draws most of his inspiration to run from his students, friends, colleagues and family members who have overcome obstacles to achieve success.
“I run to honor all these people in my life,” Tse said.
However, Tse’s main source of inspiration is his daughter, Sophie. When Sophie was born, Tse was 40 pounds heavier than he is today, what he considers “very much out of shape”.
“I made a promise to her that I would lead a more
healthy and active lifestyle,” Tse said.
Tse prepared over time to build leg and core muscle strength, and stay in shape.
“Throughout the year, I tried to stay in half marathon shape, which means running three to four times a week for a total of over 20 miles every seven days. Two months before the marathon, I began to increase my mileage each week capped by a long run every Sunday,” Tse said.
He also paid close attention to his nutrition during preparation.
“I ate a lot of certain types of foods and avoided a lot of junk foods like french fries, one of my guilty pleasures,” Tse said.
During the race, Tse felt great for his first 14 miles.
“My body was feeling strong and I was enjoying the scenery of the different parts of Los Angeles. I smiled at the funny signs that people made,” Tse said.
Throughout the race, Tse imagined himself crossing the finish line to compel him to keep going.
“The image in my head of crossing the finish line and seeing my wife and daughter willed me towards completing the marathon,” Tse said.
Tse finished the race in just over six hours, which he admits is below average for a typical marathon runner.
“It means I still have work to do in terms of training, nutrition and pacing. After taking a week off, I will begin training to improve myself for next year’s marathon,” Tse said.
According to Tse, the hardest part about preparing to run a marathon is getting started.
“There were so many days I struggled between staying in my warm bed or going for a thirteen-mile run at 6 a.m. when it was cold and dark. The hardest part is getting out the door and once you get yourself outside,” he said. “The rest is easy.”