At Silo High School, distance running has taken on a deeper meaning for senior Nayeli Paz. What once began as a way to stay active has grown into something far more personal, shaped by faith, loss and a determination to keep moving forward.
Paz competes in the 1600- and 3200-meter runs, events that demand both endurance and mental toughness. She joined track as a freshman without much expectation, simply looking for something to do. Over time, that changed.
“I honestly joined track just to keep my body moving,” Paz said. “But now I have a completely different perspective on why I run.”
That perspective shifted earlier this year when Paz lost her father just before the season began. His passing brought a weight she continues to carry, but also a renewed sense of purpose.
“My dad was and will always be the reason I push harder every day,” she said. “Everything I do now is for him.”
In January, during an indoor meet, Paz found herself going back and forth between the track and the hospital, where her father was being treated. She remembers sleeping on the floor and feeling uncertain about competing, but he encouraged her to keep going.
“He told me to go and run,” Paz said. “He didn’t want me to stop my life for him.”
She listened, and that moment has stayed with her. Now, every race feels connected to him. Before stepping to the line, she often reflects on his words, using them as motivation no matter how difficult the race or the day.
Her training reflects that mindset. Practices are not only about improving physically, but also about building resilience. When workouts become challenging, Paz leans on her faith, reminding herself that pain is temporary.
Before races, she takes time to stretch, look to the sky and pray, expressing gratitude for the opportunity. Then she refocuses, determined to chase a personal best.
When performances fall short, she keeps perspective.
“No matter my performance, I am still human,” Paz said. “We all have bad days. I just try to do better the next meet.”
Balancing school, training and a full-time job has not been easy, but Paz continues to show up each day. Her goal this season is to qualify for state while continuing to improve.
“My motivation is my dad,” Paz said. “He’s my why. I’m going to keep running to make him proud.”
For Paz, running is no longer just a sport—it is a way to carry forward love, faith and the strength to keep going.
