SAN ANTONIO — We first brought you the story of Paloma Gonzalez in May. The ultra-marathoner from San Antonio ran 71 miles from her home to the Uvalde Town Plaza in memory of those killed in the shooting at Robb Elementary.
Gonzalez also ran with a purpose, raising money for a $1,000 scholarship, which she gave out to Caden Smith when she arrived to the Uvalde Town Square.
Gonzalez said her run was to remind the Uvalde community that other communities are thinking about them and also hurting for them, as they marked the 2nd year since the tragedy.
“Every time people were donating, every time people were sharing, to me it was them telling them (Uvalde Community), we are also here. We are also helping, and that was very emotional for me and I feel very proud,” said Gonzalez.
On Sunday, Gonzalez gave out five scholarships to four Uvalde graduates, and one from Knippa.
Among the recipients were two cousins of 4th grade victims and the daughter of Irma and Joe Garcia.
“When I was talking to them, I was like 'OK, I made the right decisions.' They all have great plans, and they're really great kids,” said Gonzalez.
Gonzalez says running on Highway 90 can be dangerous so if she can have her crew behind her, keeping her safe, she will do it again. She also says others have shown interest in joining her next year if she decided to do it again.
"It's going to be a little challenging. I would have to work on the logistics of that, but I think I can definitely do it again next year." said Gonzalez.
