J.C. Cadua also completes 1st marathon

Run Saipan member J.C. Cadua, right, took part in the Florida Space Coast Marathon 2021 last Nov. 28. Also in phot is his friend and running mate Ken Conol, who also completed the marathon. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Another Run Saipan member recently completed a 42-kilometer run and it just so happened that he’s also vacationing on Saipan now.

J.C. Cadua, a Marianas High School alumnus, tackled the Florida Space Coast Marathon 2021 last Nov. 28 and completed the course in 4:48:08.

The 23-year-old member of the U.S. Air Force said like Jalen Lucido, the Florida Space Coast Marathon 2021 also was his first time to run a marathon.

“I’m actually a powerlifter by trade, competing in state level competitions but got an injury. Got inspired to pursue being a ‘hybrid athlete’ where the individual trains for strength, performance, and endurance. So I started my running journey in January of this year but didn’t start marathon prep until August. The most challenging part of the marathon was dealing with quad cramps from miles 19-26. My legs locked up around Mile 24 and I had to walk for a few minutes,” he said.

Cadua, who is the son of former Saipan residents Roger “Elvis Presley” and Chato Cadua, is dedicating his first marathon to his wife, Nathally, and their son, Levi.

“On top of dedicating the race to my wife and son, I’d like to thank Michael Cenir (also born and raised on Saipan) for inspiring me to do a marathon and helping me throughout training and race day. Thank you also to Ken Conol and Emerson Papaia for joining me on my long run days and making training enjoyable. Lastly, I thank God for keeping me injury-free.”

Run Saipan president Edward Dela Cruz Jr. said it always puts a smile in his face whenever a member of the nonprofit running club achieves a milestone.

“I’m proud of him as he’s able to do two sports. His main competition is powerlifting and he’s competed up to the national level. It goes to show you that he is not only physically strong but that he has bulletproof mentality as well indomitable will. Running 26.2 miles is nothing to joke about and he shows he can do both sports and break the status quo,” he said.

Cadua and his family are at the tail-end of their Saipan vacation as they’re expected to return to Palm Bay, Florida next week.

“It’s refreshing to be back home and be surrounded by the culture I grew up in. Me and my family went full tourist mode and visited all the hi-vis areas such as Banzai Cliff, Mt. Tapochau, infinity pool, and more. Too many people to mention but we appreciate everyone who came out and spent time with us during our stay back home.”

Cadua is currently stationed at Patrick Space Force Base.