The start of every Los Angeles marathon begins with the same step over 27,000 other runners begin with. Whether they step with their left foot or right, breathing in and out, these runners pace their breathing with their stride until their whole body works in tandem like an automated machine that’ll carry them over the finish line. 

The LA marathon is a milestone for many runners who spend months preparing for the 26.2 mile journey starting at Dodger Stadium and ending near Century City. Counselor Briana Brazil has completed the LA marathon four times. 

In preparation for this type of intensive running, Brazil’s regime involves training for eighteen consecutive weeks. This training includes waking up at 4:30 a.m., as well as following a strict diet of electrolytes, extra protein, and beneficial carbohydrates. Brazil works towards her goal with stamina-training morning runs each week and adjusts her mileage, the highest being at least 30 miles during the week. On Saturdays leading up to the run, she does an additional “long run” that consists of a minimum of ten-mile run.

“When starting a race there is no guarantee that I’ll finish it so I feel an immense sense of accomplishment finishing something I set out to do,” Brazil said. 

Brazil re-discovered her passion for running during COVID. She found that running was not only got her heart pumping, but also helped her feel a sense of peace. Running helps quiet the commotion of everyday life and gives her a chance to silence any hecticness. 

“Running is the only time, I feel my brain is quiet and my mind is clear,” Brazil said.

The journey from receiving a race bib and pinning it on to the last few inches before crossing the finish line serve as an escape for many like Brazil.

Since that first marathon, Brazil has competed in many more runs including she has run half-marathon races all over southern California including the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, San Diego, Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa, Nike After Dark, Long Beach. Even races all over southern California and has traveled to Northern California to complete the San Jose Half Marathon. 

To keep the pace when running, you move with a consecutive beat and rhythm. Brazil has found that her work in counseling and her training in running mirror one another as she helps hundreds of students keep their own pace to graduate. With each milestone achieved or medal won, she embodies the principles of consistency she preaches to her students. 

“Ms. Brazil is a former Granada-Grad who brings life, energy, and compassion to every student she engages with. The transformation of Black Student Union and the growth of the Umoja program would not be possible without her support.” Said close colleague and joint BSU advisor Jordan Clark.

That connection with her students runs even deeper. As a Highlander alumna (class of 2014), Brazil once walked the same campus halls she now supports in a different role. During her four years at GHC, she was involved in cheerleading, an experience that helped shape her sense of discipline and school pride. 

“Ms. Brazil, a former BSU Officer herself, is dedicated to supporting her counseling students as well as being a resource for Black students on campus. She is a safe place for many students who require necessary support.” Said Clark.

Returning to GHC as a counselor, Brazil brings that same energy back to the campus, but this time as a mentor. Her journey from student to staff member offers a full-circle perspective, allowing her to connect with students not just academically, but personally. Whether she’s helping a student navigate challenges or encouraging them to stay on track, Brazil understands that success requires determination.  

Brazil plans to train for another Nike After Dark run this summer, San Francisco, and Berlin marathon in fall. Nike After Dark is a run created for women that brings runners of all backgrounds and abilities together to run in various communities around the world. 

“Running a half marathon in the evening was a great experience. Since most races take place in the morning, I like that the take off is at 6:00 p.m. It’s rare for this to happen.” said Brazil. 

If you’re a student and want to get involved, opportunities like the Rose Bowl half-marathon open registration to runners as young as twelve and Students Run LA also presents ample opportunities. The GHC track and field team also offers opportunities and a large community of likeminded athletes.

“Don’t focus too much on the speed or comparing yourself to others the more you’re running the faster you’ll become,” Brazil advised new runners.