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Cesar Pedragosa Bellen: Running Through Life’s Challenges

Cesar Pedragosa Bellen, a native of Bicol, has a story that resonates with perseverance, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of passion. His journey began under challenging circumstances, but through running, he found a way to navigate life’s hurdles.

Early Life and Challenges

Cesar’s early life was marked by hardship. At the tender age of five, he faced the unimaginable loss of his parents. This tragedy left him without a traditional support system, thrusting him into a world where he had to fend for himself. Despite the absence of guidance and encouragement, Cesar discovered running during his elementary school years. It was during this time that he realized running could be more than just a physical activity—it could be a way to cope with the emotional and psychological turmoil he faced.

Discovering Running

Running became Cesar’s sanctuary. The rhythmic pounding of his feet on the ground provided a sense of stability and control amidst the chaos of his young life. He ran without proper gear, without formal training, and without anyone to cheer him on from the sidelines. Yet, he persisted, driven by an intrinsic motivation to keep moving forward.

Early Adulthood and Family Responsibilities

As Cesar entered his teenage years, life continued to challenge him. He married at an early age, a decision that brought both joy and increased responsibilities. Despite these new demands, his love for running remained unwavering. He juggled his roles as a young husband and a passionate runner, often finding solace in the early morning runs before the day’s responsibilities took over.

A Significant Achievement

In 2014, Cesar’s dedication and perseverance culminated in a remarkable achievement. He participated in the Nat Geo Run 42km event and secured a podium finish. This accomplishment was not just a testament to his physical endurance but also a validation of his years of hard work and determination. However, this moment of triumph was bittersweet. Financial constraints and the pressing needs of his family soon overshadowed his running career.

Prioritizing Family

The reality of supporting a family meant that Cesar could no longer afford the fees associated with competitive running. He made the difficult decision to step back from competitions, choosing instead to run for maintenance and to pace others in races. “My family is my inspiration,” Cesar often says. Running remained an essential part of his life, a way to maintain his health and relieve stress, but his priorities had shifted. His family’s well-being took precedence over personal accolades.

The Role of Running in His Life

For Cesar, running is more than just a hobby; it is a lifeline. The physical and mental benefits of running are crucial for him, as he cannot afford to fall ill. With limited financial resources, maintaining his health is paramount, and running serves as both his exercise and his primary method of stress relief. Despite stepping back from competitive racing, he continued to run regularly, balancing his passion with his responsibilities.

Support from Coach Matt

A significant turning point in Cesar’s running journey came when he met Coach Matt. Recognizing Cesar’s potential and dedication, Coach Matt offered support that reignited Cesar’s passion for running. With Coach Matt providing essential gear and covering registration fees, Cesar could once again participate in races without the financial burden. This support has been invaluable, allowing him to focus on his training and improvement.

Balancing Work and Training

Cesar’s life is a testament to hard work and dedication. He works as a production staff member at a plant shop, a demanding job that requires long hours. Additionally, he takes on sideline jobs as a Joyride MC Taxi driver and a Grab delivery rider to support his family. These demanding roles leave little time for dedicated training, but Cesar makes the most of his limited free time, particularly on his days off when he can focus on long runs.

Humble Aspirations

Despite his renewed focus and the support from Coach Matt, Cesar remains humble about his achievements. “I am not an elite runner, just a simple one,” he says. His modesty reflects his deep understanding of the sport and his recognition of the challenges he has faced. Cesar’s story is not about elite status or accolades; it’s about a man who has found purpose and resilience through running, against all odds.

Cesar Pedragosa Bellen’s journey is one of inspiration. From a young boy in Bicol who found solace in running amidst immense personal loss, to a dedicated family man balancing multiple jobs and still finding time to pursue his passion, Cesar’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. His dedication to running, despite numerous challenges, exemplifies the profound impact of sports on personal well-being and the importance of perseverance. Through running, Cesar has found a way to maintain his health, support his family, and inspire others with his unwavering spirit.