Octaviano Robles Cruz: A Trailblazer in Ultramarathon Running
Octaviano Robles Cruz is one of Oaxaca’s most accomplished distance runners. He began his journey in ultrarunning in 1999, and his passion for sports has since taken him to national and international competitions, including the 24 Hours of Isla Mujeres and the 2019 IAU 24-Hour World Championship in Albi, France.
As a full-time officer with the Auxiliary Banking, Industrial, and Commercial Police (PABIC), Octaviano receives valuable support from his institution, colleagues, and friends. Oax Sport had the privilege of sitting down with Octaviano to learn more about his story and share it with our followers.
Q&A with Octaviano Robles Cruz
- When you started running, did you have any role models in athletics who inspired or taught you?
ORC: When I began running at 20, I had no understanding of athletics. However, I admired my father and brother, Isaías and Roberto Robles, who were both cyclists. My father was active in the 1960s, and my brother became a champion in the 1990s.
- What has been your greatest motivation to continue running over the years?
ORC: I’m greatly inspired by individuals with disabilities who practice and compete in sports. They are my motivation.
- How have you managed to balance your commitment to athletics with your family life?
ORC: It was challenging because I’ve been a single father, raising three daughters while working as a police officer. I scheduled my time carefully to include training, housework, and my job. That’s how I built my lifestyle.
- When did your ultrarunning career begin?
ORC: From the 1980s to 2000, I participated in 5K, 10K, and half-marathon races. Around 22 years ago, a friend from Jalisco invited me to an ultramarathon event. My first ultra was a 50K race in Zapopan, and I fell in love with ultrarunning. My greatest challenge was competing on Mexico’s third-highest mountain, Iztaccíhuatl, reaching 4,870 meters above sea level and earning podium finishes in 2011 and 2012.
- Of all the places you’ve visited for competitions, which is your favorite to return to?
ORC: I love running on La Malinche and Iztaccíhuatl due to the challenging conditions, such as running in 8°C weather with snow or sleet and at extreme altitudes. I’d gladly return whenever I have the chance.
- What has been the most challenging race you’ve run?
ORC: The most difficult was the first 100-mile race in Mexico, held in 2011 in Villa del Carbón. The Sierra Traverse was a true test, yet I still managed to secure second place.
- What do you think is the best physical activity and mental attitude to complement ultrarunning training?
ORC: Ultramarathon running requires perseverance, determination, and courage. Success comes with focusing entirely on your goals. It’s also essential to train your mind to handle both winning and losing.
- What do you believe is the best support and recognition an athlete can receive?
ORC: Providing access to sports facilities for personal and physical development is crucial. Recognition is secondary; facilitating resources is what truly matters.
- How long have you been coaching young runners, and what has been the most rewarding part of this activity?
ORC: I started sharing my knowledge with young athletes about six years ago through a team called Espíritu Guerrero. It’s been incredibly rewarding to train several champions between 7 and 13 years old, most of whom were girls competing at the national Olympic level.
- Do you have any upcoming competitions or experiences you’re looking forward to?
ORC: My next race is the Backyard Ultra 2021 in Saltillo on May 8, which is a qualifier for an international event. After that, my goal is to secure a spot as a national team member and represent Mexico in another IAU ultrarunning world championship.
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