Tatum Bunce; super mom & runner
September Local Inspiration
TATUM BUNCE
Tatum’s love for running began early. She started playing soccer at just 3 years old and discovered her love for running when, at 13, her favorite soccer coach and role model, Kim Hoskins, encouraged her to run her first half marathon. She’s been hooked ever since! 🏃♀️
Running has taught Tatum that she is stronger than she thinks and that progress isn’t always linear—and that’s okay. One of her proudest running moments was completing her first postpartum half marathon after having two babies.
Her next big goal? Running a marathon before May 2027, during the 30th year of her life—the clock is ticking! Her long-term goal is to run a half marathon in under two hours.
Tatum is a road runner, especially because it allows her to bring along her double stroller and her kids. Her advice to fellow runners is simple: always bring snacks and listen to a playlist from the early 2000s. And if she had to describe running in one word, it would be “healing.”
After a run, you’ll find her sitting on her back porch in the sunshine. Her dream running destination is Australia, where she’d love to run a race someday.
And you can expect Tatum to bring a little sparkle to every race—glitter, hair ribbons, and a pink outfit are always part of the look!
Beyond running, Tatum is a mom of two, a Licensed Social Worker, and the founder of a moms run club. Originally from Colorado, she loves to ski, and when she’s not running, you can find her at the beach with her family, strength training with friends at Sage Society, or snuggling with her babies. 🩷
Thank you, Tatum, for sharing your story and reminding us that running can be about strength, healing, family, and finding joy along the way. We’re so happy to have you as part of our community!
Run Free. Run as One.
Aly Davis; a truly run leader.
August Local Inspiration
Aly Davis is one of those people who makes the Santa Barbara running community feel like home. A well-known and respected runner, she's known for her welcoming spirit, kindness, and genuine willingness to support others. Whether she's encouraging a friend, leading by example, or collaborating to strengthen the local running community, Aly has a natural way of bringing people together and making everyone feel included.
After competing as a Division I swimmer at Texas Christian University, Aly explored the fitness world before discovering a love for running. She ran her first half marathon in 2018—and she's been running ever since.
Aly's authenticity, empathy, and determination shine through in everything she does. She serves on the Board of the Santa Barbara Running Association, is the founder of Santa Barbara Run Club, and was the lululemon Santa Barbara Run Ambassador from 2022 to 2024. More than her accomplishments, Aly is someone who leads with heart and is always cheering others on.
Q&A with Aly
When did you start running?
I started running in early 2018.
What inspired you to begin?
I was a competitive swimmer from the age of 9 through college, where I competed at the Division I level for Texas Christian University. After graduating and moving to Santa Barbara, I didn't know many people, and running felt like the perfect way to build community and make new friends. I signed up for my first half marathon in the spring of 2018, and I've been running ever since.
What are your short-term and long-term goals?
In the short term, I want to continue enjoying every mile and finding happiness in moving my body. Long term, I'd love to set new personal records in the 5K, half marathon, and marathon over the next two years while staying healthy and injury-free.
Trail or road runner?
Road runner—but I definitely enjoy the downhill sections of trail runs! 😉
What's one running tip you'd love to share with others?
Your body doesn't know pace—it only knows effort. Not every run needs to be at your maximum. Some of the greatest benefits come from slower, more intentional miles.
What has been your proudest running moment?
Being selected as the lululemon Santa Barbara Run Ambassador from 2022 to 2024 was an incredible honor. Another proud milestone has been founding Santa Barbara Run Club and helping build a welcoming community for runners of all levels.
One word to describe running?
Calming.
Trevor Blackman, Trail Runner & Landscape Photographer
July Local Inspiration
Trevor Blackman is a Carpinteria-based trail runner and landscape photographer. A husband and father of five, he can often be found on local trails before sunrise with a camera tucked into his running pack. His photography is inspired by the places running takes him and the quiet moments found outdoors. Trevor exhibits his work at Mneian Gallery in Carpinteria, where he also teaches film photography workshops.
When did you start running? I started running in high school but just on my own, not with my school. I lived near the beach and could check various surf spots while ran.
What inspired you to begin? I did not do sports in high school. I was in orchestra and surfed daily and wanted to do more to stay in shape.
What are your short- and long-term goals? Short-term, I plan to stay in enough run shape to continue to trail run with my camera in SB hillside. Long-term, I’m throwing around the idea of running the Oregon Pacific Trail with my camera.
Trail or road runner? Trail but sometimes road ;)
What’s one running tip you’d love to share with others? Go at your own speed.
What has been your proudest running moment? While out on a run, I ran into my high school son coming back from a 10 mile run with a huge smile on his face. Introducing others into the running lifestyle is special.
Thank you, Trevor, for inspiring our community.
Meet Karen Rojas
June Local Inspiration
Meet Karen Rojas — a local realtor, proud mom, personal trainer, and a true source of inspiration within our running community.
Karen’s journey began years ago through her passion for personal training, where she found purpose in helping others discover their strength, build confidence, and reach their goals. Her positive energy, determination, and genuine care for the people around her make her someone who motivates others simply by showing up.
A strong, joyful, and adventurous spirit, Karen embraces every challenge with heart and dedication. She has crossed the finish line at multiple local races, completed a duathlon last year, and is now training toward her next big milestone: completing a triathlon this year.
Beyond the miles, Karen represents the power of consistency, community, and believing that there is always a new goal waiting to be achieved.
When did you start running?
I started running in 2023, about six months postpartum.
What inspired you to begin?
I wanted a quick and simple way to exercise, but also a moment to breathe and have time for myself. Running gave me that, and it still does.
What are your short- and long-term goals?
I want to participate in a trail running race. I recently started trail running, so I know I have a long journey ahead to improve and grow.
Trail or road runner?
I’ve recently started trail running, and I absolutely love it. There’s something so peaceful about being out on the trails.
What’s one running tip you’d love to share with others?
Consistency is key if you want to get better at running.
One word to describe running?
Friendship.
What has been your proudest running moment?
Running a 5K while pregnant.
Michelle Rivas
June Local Inspiration
Michelle is a Carpinteria local working in healthcare who loves making the most of her time outdoors. Whether she’s hiking, enjoying long walks, soaking up beach days, traveling to new places, or discovering great coffee spots, she embraces movement and adventure. She’s also a proud cat mom who loves staying active and exploring new places.
Running Journey
Although Michelle has always enjoyed running, she began taking it seriously about two years ago.
What inspired her to start?
After a leg injury, Michelle was told by her orthopedic surgeon that she would never be able to run again. Instead of accepting that limitation, she turned it into motivation.
Goals
Michelle hopes to continue improving her running and dreams of completing at least one World Major Marathon someday.
Trail or Road?
Definitely a road runner.
Running Advice
“Enjoy every run, whether it’s a good run or a bad one.”
One word to describe running?
Therapeutic
Proudest Running Moments
Crossing the finish line of her first 5K after her injury and completing her first marathon in Hawaii — proof that resilience can take you farther than you imagine.
Michelle reminds us that setbacks don’t define us — determination does. Thank you for inspiring our community and reminding us to keep moving, one step at a time.
