Why I Ran the London Marathon – A Personal Journey
Dear friends,
The other day, my son asked me, “Daddy, why did you run the marathon?”
I paused. The truth is, I didn’t have a straightforward answer.
Elite runners do it for the prize money, as many professional athletes do.
But for the rest of us? We must be a little crazy — to train for months, to put our bodies under such pressure. In my case, it’s a mix of many reasons, which makes the answer even more complex.
From a logical perspective, running a marathon isn’t a great decision. Your body suffers, your emotions swing wildly, and mentally, you’re forced to confront the unknown.
Our minds naturally seek comfort — that’s how we’ve evolved. We create technology and conveniences to make life easier. But comfort has a cost. We become entitled to it. And when things aren’t fast or easy, we grow frustrated.
Yet life isn’t always easy. We age. We face hardship. And we cherish our hardest-won achievements the most.
I've never seen a more radiant, joyful face than a woman’s after childbirth — despite the pain, the long wait, the discomfort. It’s deeply admirable.
As men, we’ll never truly understand that experience. But some of us are wired to chase something beyond comfort.
For me, running a marathon is a humbling reminder of my own vulnerability. No matter how hard I train, the weather can surprise me, or my body can betray me.
Running the London Marathon was a rollercoaster. I signed up while going through a tough season mentally — I needed something to ground me, something to remind me why I’m alive.
I have a beautiful life: incredible children, a loving wife, a thriving business and career, and friends around the world.
So why was I struggling?
Perhaps it’s that ever-present pressure — the feeling of never being enough, of always needing to push harder.
But this marathon changed my perspective.
Instead of buying a spot and staying in a fancy hotel, I chose to run for a charity. I asked for support and donations — and in doing so, I discovered the beauty of people’s generosity when you allow yourself to ask for help.
I ran for The Outward Bound Trust — an incredible charity that helps vulnerable young people in the UK build resilience and self-belief through outdoor adventures.
You might think the UK is a wealthy country, but poverty exists here too. And with its harsh weather and social challenges, life for many children can be tougher than in parts of Mexico.
Taking young people into nature — into the forest — helps them reconnect, build character, and grow strong. This charity is giving hope to a new generation.
So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Thank you for supporting me, but most importantly, for supporting them.
If you’re a parent, you understand how vital it is to help children develop strength and resilience.
One day, I hope my own children will look back at this moment and see a lesson in what it means to be a father.
As for me — I’m deeply grateful you’re here. Whether you're supporting me, donating, or simply enjoying our specialty coffee, know that every sip contributes to something greater. Together, we grind with purpose — helping communities, one cup at a time.
A special thank you to my wife — the one who inspires me daily to be the best version of myself.
Right now, we’re facing a possible medical challenge, and I kindly ask for your thoughts and prayers.
If there’s one thing she’s taught me, it’s to be unshakably strong, no matter what.
Wishing you all a beautiful month ahead. May is the time when the sun starts to shine brightest — so pour yourself a warm cuppa, and keep shining too.
With love and gratitude,
Your amigo,
Carlos
