2025 January VFE Featured Athlete – Vivian La Barreda; Sport – Ultra Trail Runner

When I first laced up my running shoes and hit the road back in 2011, I never imagined how far this journey would take me – literally and figuratively. My name is Vivian La Barreda, an ultra-marathoner in my late 40’s. I’ve found my stride in the 100K and 100-mile distances, but my journey into this sport wasn’t something I anticipated when I first started running in 2011 and running my first marathon
distance in 2013. By 2016, I took on my first 50K, and something clicked, I was hooked. The trails, the adventure, the grind, and the community, I found my calling. It felt so natural and I enjoyed it so much. The mountains, the dirt, the single track, the scenery, the training, the camaraderie, the grinding, the racing and the results on race day when you put it all together.

That same year, I went all in, completing my first 50- and 100-miler while qualifying for the Boston Marathon twice. Balancing marathon training with ultras helped me maintain speed while embracing the endurance needed for longer distances. By 2017, I placed 4th female at the Angeles Crest 100 and started building a reputation as a competitive ultra-runner. I didn’t stop there,

—running UTMB in 2019 and finally earning my spot in the Western States 100 in 2022, a race that marked one of my most challenging setbacks.

Western States was a defining moment for me—not because I performed my best but because I didn’t. An ankle injury during the race derailed my plans and shook my confidence. Recovery was tough, but the mental toll of wondering if I’d lost my edge was even harder. It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned that perseverance, accepting where your at, the support from your loved ones, and the community can really play a big role in gaining confidence. People believe in you, but you have to believe in yourself more importantly.

This is where true grit meets true community. Since 2015, VFE has been my partner through every triumph and trial. Their expertise kept me strong and ready to compete, race after race. Post-Western States, their dedication didn’t waver, even as we dealt with the unknowns of my injury. When a meniscus tear was discovered two years later after Wester States, VFE’s consistent care allowed me to take on the Leona Divide 100 in April of this year—a race that felt like the ultimate comeback for me. Starting that race as second to last and in low spirits, I worried the injury might sideline me for good. But by the final stretch—24 miles to the finish—I rediscovered my strength and raced my way to second female and 13th place overall. It wasn’t just a race; it was a testament of my hard work, trust in the process, and belief in myself.

Off the trail, and out of my workout gear, I’m someone who values family. A mom of a 17-year-old who is also into fitness and competes as a swimmer for her high school. She is also a client of VFE during competition season. Balancing life as a single mom and a runner, training can sometimes get challenging. Training can look different every year. I make it work no matter the circumstances. Even when things get tough, I have to remember that it takes time, and to trust the process. My biggest lesson running has taught me is patience after all, and to be kind to myself. Rest when its needed and take breaks when necessary. I have to remind myself from time to time that setbacks are temporary. Nothing is permanent, but if you continue to chase your dreams and goals, anything is possible. I need to take some time off to heal. I still have some unfinished business with a supportive team behind me, and so after some much needed time off, I will be back!