Grace Padilla showcased on masters-friendly British track site

Grace hugs Sonja Friend-Uhl as Lisa Ryan looks on after 9:18.33 WR.

W40 distance ace Grace Padilla, a Southern Californian known for her bikini briefs and world-class marks, is the subject of a delightful profile on a track site I never knew about. “In 2010 she became double masters 1,500 and 5000 Champion,” says a 1,400-word report on British-centric trackfield97.com. “The toughest thing about this double was 100 degrees weather they had in Sacramento, California, where the championships were held,” she told the site. “I thought I was going to die during and after the 5,000m. Pulling off the double national title was a great achievement for me. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was in my best shape.” In 2011, she ran a masters exhibition 3K at the Eugene open nationals. “Stepping on the Oregon track for the first time and hearing the crowd cheering gave me chills and brought tears to my eyes. I ran a smart race, fought to the finish line. Although I took second place, by a tenth of a second, I got a PR and felt proud of myself.” We’re proud of you, too, Grace! Don’t be a stranger to the oval.