La Puente’s Blanca Ramirez receives this year’s Dynamic Youth Award

Photo Courtesy: Javiera Cartagena Assemblyman Roger Hernández with Blanca Ramirez

Staff Reports

La Puente – On Mon., May 4, Assemblyman Roger Hernández (D-West Covina) – representing the 48^th District – joined members of the Latino Legislative Caucus to honor distinguished Latinos from across the State making an impact in their communities at the 14^th Annual Latino Spirit Awards Ceremony.  Blanca Ramirez from the City of La Puente was awarded this year’s Dynamic Youth Award.

Blanca Ramirez is a 12-year old marathon runner who recently earned a world record for the youngest girl to complete a marathon on each of the world’s seven continents. A third generation Mexican-American, Blanca has lived in La Puente since the age of 4. Blanca tried various sports and clubs before ultimately discovering her love of running.

“Blanca’s discipline and steadfast determination is motivating individuals around the globe to complete their own marathons no matter the age.  She is living proof that you are never too young to make a difference and pursue your dreams. We are incredibly proud to recognize her accomplishments today,” stated Hernández.

While researching world records, Blanca discovered the title for the youngest girl to complete a marathon on each of the seven continents was held by a 14-year old girl. At that moment, Blanca’s journey to break that record began. She completed her feat in Antarctica on Feb. 19, after having run marathons in the United States, Rwanda, New Zealand, Paraguay, China, and France. Through her running, she hopes to bring awareness to Operation Smile, a non-profit that provides free surgeries to repair cleft palates and other facial deformities for children around the globe.

Established in 2002, the Latino Spirit Awards honors individuals in a variety of categories that range from athletics/sports, to public service and human rights.  Many of the honorees are pioneers in their professions and have overcome tremendous obstacles, rising to become role models and community leaders.  They serve as a reminder of the talent within the state’s diverse Latino community and are a source of inspiration to all Californians.  Blanca Ramirez was among seven honorees.

Hernández proudly serves the cities of Azusa, Baldwin Park, Bradbury, City of Industry, Covina, El Monte, Glendora, Irwindale, Monrovia, West Covina and the unincorporated communities of: Bassett, Charter Oak, East Arcadia, Ramona, Royal Oaks and Valinda.  Hernández also serves as Chair of the Assembly Labor and Employment Committee.