Simon says I’ll run 1K days straight

Simon Necesito recently completed a significant milestone—running at least one mile every day for 1,000 consecutive days, an achievement referred to as “hitting the comma.” What began as a weight-loss goal turned into a way to manage stress and became a central part of his routine.

“For me, it was because I wanted to lose weight,” Necesito shared. “But as I continued, it became a way for me to relieve the stresses I face.”

The journey was far from easy. Some of the 29-year-old Dandan Middle School teacher’s most difficult moments involved running while sick.

“Some of my hardest challenges were when I had to run while I was sick,” he said. “Running on a fever was a horrifying moment for me.”

Despite these tough days, Necesito refused to let anything break his streak. He found ways to fit running into his daily schedule, no matter what the day brought.

“I usually carry three sets of running clothes with me at all times—one in my car, one at work, and one in my bag,” he explained. This readiness allowed him to keep his commitment to running, even on the busiest days.

Like many athletes, Necesito experienced injuries, particularly during his first year of running. “I had some injuries on the back side of my right knee,” he said. “I got a referral to Eucon Medical. The therapy and advice I got from there helped me to get back.”

One of Necesito’s key strategies for staying motivated was realizing how little time the daily run took. “I realized my average running time was 10 to 15 minutes,” he said. “From there, all I needed to do was get that in. Whenever I feel like I don’t want to run, I remind myself that there are 24 hours in a day, and my run times are just 1% of my day. I know I can commit to fitting in that 1%.”

Running has now become an integral part of Necesito’s life. “Especially now that I am in my 30s, fitness means a lot more to me,” he said.

Reaching 1,000 days brought a deep sense of accomplishment. “The most rewarding part for me is the fact that I hit 1,000 miles,” Necesito reflected. “To walk in my shoes, you can see the pain, the struggles, the joy, and the successes that came along with this. Compared to how I looked before, I lost 30 lbs, and I never looked back once I put on my running shoes.”

For those considering a similar running streak, Necesito offered encouraging advice: “Don’t feel bad about breaking your streak. It took me several years to keep the streak up. It gets hard, but it’s important to keep accountability.”

One of his most challenging experiences was participating in the Saipan Marathon. “I didn’t run one mile… I ran 26 miles. My feet were sore for weeks, but I felt great because I got to do something that my past self can be proud of.”

His best run, he said, was during the 2023 Oceania Cup. “Not only did I get to represent the NMI Team, but I finished in 6:09, which was my best personal record.”

Simon also expressed gratitude to those who supported him along his journey. “I want to acknowledge all the people who have helped me in my journey of a thousand miles: Edward Dela Cruz Jr., Vincent Camacho, Robin Sapong, Dr. Ron Snyder, Northern Marianas Athletics, Run Saipan, and all the people who have joined me on my path.”

Necesito’s story is a powerful reminder of the rewards that come with persistence, dedication, and the ability to overcome obstacles. From health and weight loss to personal growth, his journey shows the lasting impact of daily effort.