Gina Merchant is a graduate student who has been an avid athlete all her life. After completing her collegiate soccer and track career, she turned to distance running and is a founding member of Prado Racing Team. PRT is made up of a committed, passionate group of ladies and gents who love racing and training in sunny San Diego. What she loves most about running is it strips all else away and it is just you and the clock – it exposes you for who you are and you get out of it what you put in. Plus, all you need is a pair of shoes.
Gina studies health psychology and coaches soccer at the university and club level. Her passion for sport is grounded in knowing that a healthy mind and body is what ultimately determines your success in life. She enjoys being a role model for young female athletes because she knows how positive role models can impact a young person’s life. Gina’s favorite quote is "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams," (Eleanor Roosevelt). Not only was it said by a truly inspirational woman, but it embodies how she tries to live my life. To live life to the fullest you have to set goals. Some are big and some are small but they all take you places.