Our Coaches
Bob Gamez
Title: A Snail's Pace Academy Director-North County (Brea, Yorba Linda, Pasadena)
Bob's running and racing experience goes back to the late '70s. Bob first began as the Distribution Center Manager at A Snail's Pace in 2000. He introduced the ASP Running Academy to Brea/Yorba Linda in 2002. He has since been given the position of Training Academy Director-North County. Bob has been coaching runners for over 10 years and has recently introduced the ASP Running Academy to the Pasadena area. He has completed 9 marathons, 10 half marathons and countless 5k's and 10k's. His philosophy on running is "It takes motivation, preparation and perspiration. There is no easy way." But he is here to help you take the first step. It is still exciting every time he sees one of his runners cross the finish line for the first time with a huge smile and a feeling of accomplishment.
Michelle Montiel
Title: A Snail's Pace Running Academy Director-South County
Michelle has been running since 1985 and she still loves it just as much as when she started. Michelle joined A Snail's Pace Running Academy in 2002 and worked in A Snail's Pace Running Shop in Fountain Valley for four years prior to being promoted to Director of A Snail's Pace Running Academy. Michelle has completed five marathons, 22 half marathons and numerous 5 and 10k's. When asked why she runs, Michelle said, "describing the thrill of completing a race is like trying to describe a color to someone who was born without sight".
Charlie Pickford
Title: Marathon and Half Marathon Instructor-Fountain Valley and Laguna Hills
Charlie has began running in the early '80s. He has been an endurance running coach for eight years. His coaching career at A Snail's Pace Running Academy began in mid-2006. To support his running habit, he works as an Ultrasound FS Engineer for Philips Electronics. He has completed 26 marathons and 57 half marathons along with a host of other endurance-oriented events. Charlie runs because running presents him with the challenges and rewards that no other activity can. His coaching philosophy is simple: "Finish what you start, and have as much fun as possible along the way."
Arcelia Gamez
Title: Instructor, Marathon - Brea/Yorba Linda
Arcy is the Receiving Dock Supervisor for Sam's Club in La Habra. She has been running since 2002 and ran her first 5k in April of that year. She became an official coach for A Snail's Pace Running Academy in December 2004 and has enjoyed leading others in the same path ever since. Arcy has completed 8 marathons including New York City two times. She was also selected as a "Saucony 26" runner for the LA Marathon 2006. Arcy has also completed countless half marathons and numerous 5k's and 10k's. "Running has been such a positive part of my life. I have never felt better in mind and body. It is such a joy to watch new runners reach their goals, and see those finish-line smiles. I look forward to passing on the joy of running to you. As long as I can I will always run. Love Life, Run!!
Rick Schulz
Title: Instructor: Running 101, Brea/Yorba Linda
Rick has been running since 1998. The first seven years were quite difficult. As part of his job, Rick was required to complete a three-mile run in less than 25 minutes. "I got through it but I also experienced many injuries along the way. I read an article in the OC Register about a running class at A Snail's Pace in Brea. I needed to lose 20 lbs so I enrolled. Through their walk/run method I quickly began to enjoy running and all its benefits." In 2006, Rick was hired on as the Running 101 instructor. "I have enjoyed every minute of it. I have since retired from my official job as a police officer. I served 29 years on the force with seven years as a member of the SWAT team. Since joining A Snail's Pace I have completed three training courses, four 5k's, one 8k, two 10k's one 10 miler three half marathons and one marathon (which was the toughest thing I have ever done). Running is now an important part of my life and my enjoyment continues to grow. It is my goal to share this with all of you and hope that you will get as much satisfaction out of running as I do. By the way I didn't lose 20 lbs, I lost 25!"
Ed Cox
Title: Instructor: Running 102, Brea/Yorba Linda
Ed has began his running career in 2005 mainly because his family runs. He hasn't looked back since. He started running with A Snail's Pace Running Academy about two and a half years ago in the running 101 class and progressed to the running 102 class. In 2007 he was hired on as an instructor for the Running 102 class. Ed has completed numerous 5 and 10k's, with the most memorable being his first 5k at the "Harbor Heritage Run 2005". He has also run four half marathons and his biggest accomplishment so far is completing his first marathon in San Diego at the "Suzuki Rock n Roll 2007". Running has really changed his life and has become such an important part of it, too. Running is a progression of building miles, a healthier life style, making friendships and having tons of fun! Ed always says to his runners "you will never regret going for a run, only regret when you don't!"
Sharyn Peters
Title: Instructor, Running 102:Fountain Valley
Sharyn started running in the late '70s. She became part of A Snail's Pace Running Academy in the summer of 2006. When she is not coaching, she volunteers her time in her husband's Financial Planning practice. She has completed four marathons, three half marathons and numerous other distance events. Having run track since Jr. High, she has also completed in many track events. Running helps clear her life, her focus, and keeps the smile on her face. Her coaching philosophy is "To share my running passion with others; to make you laugh; and to make you better off than when I met you."
Joy Weber
Title: Instructor, Half-Marathon: Huntington Beach
Joy has been running for over 20 years. She started working at A Snail's Pace Running Shop in Fountain Valley in the beginning of 2007. She now works as an assistant at A Snail's Pace Headquarters. Over the years, Joy has competed in several 5k's, 10k's, mud runs, 18k trail runs, and half marathons. She recently completed her first marathon in October 2008 with her fellow Snail running pals! Joy has shared her passion for running by coaching high school sports and over the past 7 years has coached new runners helping them complete 5k, 10k, and half marathon distances. She has recently earned her state personal training certification along with an A.S. degree in physical education. She is currently studying for her American College of Sports Medicine national personal training certification. Joy says she runs "so my best buddy Cindy and I can eat! It would also be a bummer to miss out on all those awesome sunrises!"
Kathleen Cox
Title: Instructor, Running 201: Brea
I started running back in 2001 and haven't looked back since. My husband is part of the A Snail's Pace Running Academy and our son is a cross country and track runner in High School. Running is a huge part of our daily life. I joined the Running Academy last year by subbing in for Snail's Pace coaches. In my years of running I've completed 3 marathons, Rock'n'Roll San Diego being my favorite. I've also run 1/2 marathons, 5 and 10ks as well. All have been fun and exciting. There's nothing better than the feeling of crossing the finish line in a running event. Running to me is no gym required, part of my daily routine, miles of trails, friendships made and goals achieved. It's throwing on your running shoes wherever you are, being outside, healthy life style and never ever regretting having gone on a run, even when at times it's a tough run. That "runners high," there's nothing better than that.
Pete Vara
Title: Instructor, Running 101: Fountain Valley/Huntington Beach
I have been running since 2001; my first 5K was Turkey Trot and my time was 45:32. I was not in the best of shape to say the least. I enjoyed being in the outdoors and meeting new people. Since then I have completed numerous 10Ks, Half-Marathons, Marathons, and Ultra Marathons. I also have extensive training in the sport of Triathlons. I have completed Ironman distance races abroad and locally. I am a sponsored athlete with Team Aquaphor and Team Hammer Nutrition. My best advice for newbies is to find a running partner, make yourself accountable to each other and be consistent. Make a point of being active and most of all have FUN! Once those endorphins kick in you will be wanting more. My main goal for this program is for you to complete your running goal and make it a memorable experience.
Kelley Kelly
Title: Instructor, Running 201: Fountain Valley/Huntington Beach
Kelley’s love for running began in middle school where she competed in sprints and the hurdle events. She continued her running career in high school where she gained success with the relay events. Her contribution helped lead her relay team all the way to state level competition. Kelley's love for fitness and running in particular continues to the present. Even with the competing challenges of home and motherhood, she has continued to incorporate modified track and field events in her adult life. The hurdles have been replaced by her two children’s toys and the camaraderie of the relay is fulfilled by her long runs on the path at Huntington with the "A Snail’s Pace" runners group. Kelley, "K2" for her unique name, and her husband Brandon Kelly have made a commitment to life-long fitness. They enjoy participating in and supporting triathlons, 5 and 10k runs, and half marathons. In October 2008, Kelley completed her first marathon in San Francisco. Kelley's goal above all else is to be a great wife and mother. Running provides her with the opportunity to recharge, regroup, and maintain a clear focus on achieving that goal. Her desire is to share that joy of running with others.
Jeanette Joya
Title: Half Marathon Instructor, Running 201, Brea
Jeanette has been running since 1979, when she was on the track team for her grade school. She always kept running as part of her exercise routine. After doing several 5 & 10K's, she decided to take it to the next level and in 2007, joined Snails Pace Running Academy to complete her first Half Marathon. Since then she has completed 4 Half Marathons and her first Marathon in 2008 in Dublin, Ireland. She joined the coaching staff in 2009. When she is not coaching, Jeanette is an outside sales engineer for high tech electronics and a mother of 5. "My mother started my drive for fitness", Jeanette says, "when she used to make me exercise with her to Jack La Lanne, at age 5. I run to keep balanced, stay in touch with myself and it gives me energy to handle my busy life and makes me a better mother, wife and person. I hope I can share my enthusiasm & knowledge of running with all of you and help you reach your goals".
Julie Mullican
Title: Running 103 Instructor, Brea
Julie has been running since 1991 with numerous 5k and 10k's in her running history. In 2002 she started training with Snail's Pace in the half marathon program and loved it and continued on with the marathon program and loved that too and "like a bad penny" she kept showing up in Bob Gamez running programs. So with that Bob asked her to lead up the running 101 program. For two years Julie was the coach and had excellent support and success to which it is today. Julie has completed many marathons today with Boston being her prize memory. "I love running and like to inspire others to succeed in running and reach their goals". "Running for me is a normal routine and I don't plan to ever stop. I really enjoy challenging runs and trails and say "if there's a will, there's a way". "I hope to pass on my enthusiasm of running to new runners. With running it is always a learning experience and fun to share with a running partner."
Emesh Fernando
Title: Instructor, Running 103, Fountain Valley/Huntington Beach
Emesh started running competitively in 1989 as a sprinter and moved onto longer distances in 1998. Competing with Asthma and a heart condition were tough challenges, but with the right training Emesh overcame those obstacles. "I firmly believes anyone can achieve whatever they want in life and overcome all obstacles with hard work, patience, and confidence in yourself", states Emesh. Emesh has been coaching since 2002, where he began coaching youth track and field under the AAF (Amateur Athletic Foundation). Emesh then moved on to coach from 2005-2007 at Buena Park HS in both XC and Track. Followed by a State Championship run with the ladies program at Fountain Valley HS in 2008. Emesh competed at the JC level at Mt.SAC, competed at the NCAA level at Cal Poly Pomona, and on to the USATF club level with the VS Track West team in Santa Monica. He also represented Sri Lanka at the WSA games in Rhode Island in 2001 and won the Bronze medal in the 3000 meters. Currently Emesh is coaching at top ranked Marina HS, and is the founder and coach of the Lankan Distance Project, and the OC Comeback Kids. His philosophy is this, "I believe that you should run to live, and not live to run. The second running becomes a job you lose sight of your goals and burn out. You need to have patience, dedication, determination, and accept the time and pain you'll have to endure in order to reach your goals. The most important thing is have fun and enjoy variety. I am passionate about helping everyone achieve their goals in running and walking, and to give back to you the gift I was given."
Carla Jaramillo
Title: Running 102, Fountain Valley/Huntington Beach
Carla Jaramillo runs because it's her passion. She believes that with running you get what you put into it. She is a RRCA Certified running coach and alumni of the 101, 102 and Half Marathon programs with Snail's Pace Academy. Since joining Snail's Pace she has competed in numerous 5 & 10k's, Mud Runs, 1/2 Marathons and last year completed her first marathon. Carla has a love for physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle. She is currently studying to get her Personal Training certification. Coaching credits include assistant coach on the Surf City 1/2 Marathon and Disney 1/2 Marathon programs. When Carla is not running she enjoys going to the gym, wine tasting, reading, doing crafts and spending time with her family.
Corrinne Wallace
Title: Instructor, Running 101, Laguna Hills
I have been running for five years. I never thought I could ever run a mile. I had been a smoker for 22 years, and my exercise was chasing the kids around. A friend convinced me to sign up with the Running Academy for a half marathon. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I could make it. Every week I was amazed that I had gone farther than the week before. I completed the course, and completed my first half marathon. It was the best feeling in the world! Since then, I have completed five marathons, numerous half marathon and 10 and 5ks. I have also discovered a new love for trail running and ultras. In November I completed my first 50 miler, and can't wait to do the next one! I love sharing my experience with new runners who don't think they can do it. I know they can. Running is who I am now, and I wouldn't want it any other way.
Chris Lavender
Title: Instructor, Running 201, Laguna Hills
Chris didn't explore any kind of athletics until diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma in 2000. After successfully completing chemotherapy in 2001, he decided to participate with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training program in a triathlon event. Since then he's completed an ironman triathlon, an ultra-marathon, four bicycle century rides, a marathon, a half-ironman triathlon, two half-marathons, three olympic distance triathlons, and many 10k's, 5 milers, and 5k's. Chris views endurance sports as a way to celebrate life, freedom, and hard work. His motto is; if you're not enjoying yourself... slow down.