…..And Could Probably Take You In A 5k😊
Today I want to introduce you to the amazing story of Claire Rivas. Claire is an 8th grader at South Middle School in Martinsburg West Virginia. Like many children in our state and country Claire was dealing with medical obesity which would have greatly impacted her health in years to come. Claire is the oldest of three children with a younger sister and brother. She was born in Florida moving to West Virginia in 2011. According to her father Jader, the reason she began her health transformation was a dermatologist appointment where the physician disclosed a skin condition in her neck. The skin condition is called acanthosis nigricans which is marker of insulin resistance and pre-diabetes .
According to Jader, “I felt responsible as a parent to do something to change my daughter’s medical and well-being path. “
Jader shares: “When I went to a meeting at her school, I saw the running club flyer and got Claire enrolled. As she stated, she was dead last on the race, but she continued working and practicing and this past Cross Country season she came in 4th overall in the county for girls.”
In her health transformation Claire has lost about 50 pounds of body fat (her body weight in the 4th grade was 200 pounds), gained several pounds of muscle, grown several inches, and is now a joyful athlete participating in multiple sports. Importantly Claire has a strong desire to mentor others who are in the situation she was in.
What was your entry into running?
My first run was at Orchard View Elementary School in the 4th grade when they hosted a 5K. It did not go well I walked most of the way.
Tell us some of the high and low points from the beginning to where you are now?
At first running was very difficult. I was at the back of the pack. During covid my whole family would start running after school and we went to the track almost every day. I joined Girls On The Run and I also started to do more races and kept improving.
Tell us about you first cross country race?
My middle school (South Middle School Berkeley Co WV) had a cross country team and I decided to join. My first race I was last I think 89th place.
What inspired you to continue?
I wanted to get a medal. My family also inspired me to continue.
Your Best Race?
I ran 23 minutes at the Berkeley Christmas 5K. I also finished Freedoms Run 10K and ran the whole way.
Tell us how you train now and what other sports do you play ?
I like to play a variety of sports. After school every day my father takes me to the gym and I am either doing basketball or fitness classes such as Crush Your Core, Body Attack, Body Step, and Dance Fit. In the spring I will start running track.
Who are your biggest supporters?
My family.
What was your way of eating when you first started the sport?
I used to eat a lot of candy and shakes. I would hide bars under my bed. I used to constantly eat at night even in the middle of the night. I always seemed to be hungry.
What about now?
Now I really like steak, eggs, and salad and fruit
Can you describe the biggest challenges in maintaining nutritional change?
I enjoy this food now, so it really isn’t much of a challenge.
How is your energy now?
My energy is really good!
Are you doing better in school now?
Yes, I am!
Favorite Subjects?
I really like reading.
Any goals for this year?
I’m going to get more into sprinting
Anything else?
If there’s any one out there with a child battling obesity support them as much as you can or find local resources or even local recreation center to start them on any recreational activities. In the long run it will improve a kid’s lifestyle forever. It might be tough at first, but it’s 100% worth it. Keep the kids active.
Thank you Claire and Jader you are showing us what is possible with hope, discipline, the joy of moving, and love.
