2020 and 2024 Olympic Trials Marathon qualifier; Winner, 2021 Columbus Marathon

My parents, Akira and Sumiko Minagawa, are both Japanese immigrants. I was born and raised in the U.S. I have an older brother, an identical twin sister and a younger sister. My twin sister, Minori is my best friend and also one of my biggest supporters. She is a professional triathlete and cyclist.

There are so many things I’m grateful for and proud of. In general, I try to recognize and appreciate the journey, both the tough times and good times that make me who I am now. For me, accomplishments are most meaningful when I can share my journey and experiences with others.

In September 2022, I developed a sacral fracture and had a long journey to recovery. Getting through the injury - not just the physical injury but also the emotional pain, uncertainty and self-pressure - was not easy. I learned to trust a new way of training, incorporating cross-training on the elliptical and strength training, and slowly built up my endurance and strength. I signed up for the 2023 California International Marathon with the thought that no matter what the outcome, I’m going to give my very best. I am most proud of not giving up during the race when it got tough and qualifying for the 2024 Olympic Trials by running more than 5 minutes better than my personal best.

My favorite running memory is running with my twin sister, Minori Minagawa, at the 2021 Columbus Marathon, where she ran the half marathon and I ran the full marathon. As I sprinted toward the finish line to win the race, Minori was waiting for me and I was able to run straight to her and give her a big hug!