Gael Henville discovered a pure love of running early in life, growing up in the Caribbean. After immigrating to the US, she experienced racism and bullying, and subsequent isolation.
This is the story of how Gael’s love of running eventually led her to discovering her own power and a driving desire to empower others through the sport, especially women of color. Gael is recognized as a leader in the running community, sharing the wisdom of, in her words, “many life lessons learned” and many races run. She tells her story in her own voice.
Gael Henville has run over 100 races, and counting, from 5ks to marathons, including four times at the Boston Marathon. She is a private coach as well as the long-time head coach for the Road to Wellness 5k. Recognized for her community leadership and coaching skills, as well as her own experiences as a runner, Gael was chosen by the Boston Athletic Association to lead its first pre-marathon shakeout run in 2021, and then again in 2022. Gael is a driving force in building bridges among the diverse running communities of the Boston area.
Ways to Find Gael on the Web:
Keep Up with Gael on Instagram @witnessthefitness617
Learn more about the Road to Wellness 5k here, which takes place on September 10, 2022.
Thank you to the How Was Your Run Today podcast for allowing us to use audio from their August 26, 2021, episode: Episode 235: Road to Wellness 5k
The episode features great interviews with Thaddeus Miles and Gael. We encourage you to listen.
Thank you also to Suzanne Walmsley, Director of Youth and Community Engagement for the Boston Athletic Association
Ways to follow Strides Forward Online
Learn more about Strides Forward on our website
Learn about how you can submit a story for consideration on the next Strides Behind the Mic episode
Follow Strides Forward on Instagram and Twitter: @StridesForward
