We had the good fortune of connecting with Nathalie Vazquez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nathalie, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
As a parent, YOU are your worst critic. Always second guessing yourself, if you played the right “Parent Card” or if you explained things clearly….it never ends. But that’s the exciting part of a parent or guardian’s role, you are always learning and adapting along the way, together, alongside your kids. As a parent of two, I strive for my kids to stay active, focused, creative, and happy in all aspects of their daily routines. It’s important for me to show them to be proud of who they are and remember they have a voice that needs to be heard, no matter what. With iTRI, I wanted to give kids a platform where they can push themselves and see the true power they have inside, hidden away. You will usually see me dressed up in tutus and different colored wigs all year long, making a celebration out of everything. I do it to bring a smile to those in need and to give a little push to those in search of one.. As loud as I get on the finish line at the iTRI events, I want to remind my kids to LIVE OUT LOUD. We need to remind our kids it’s important to be themselves, to show their true colors, and to remind them they have a fire inside that just needs to be ignited. If not, the world is going to miss out on some pretty cool humans!

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
iTRI Racing Series is a great platform for kids and families to find their true self, out on the course! We host running events as well as multi-sport events (triathlons, aquathlons, and duathlons). The main goal of iTRI is to inspire families to take on a more active, HEALTHY, lifestyle. Running, cycling, swimming can be fun activities, especially when taken on as a family. I want to encourage kids and their families to Get Out, Be Active, and Get Healthy. I learned very early on how to be successful with anything you put your mind to; with hard work, focus, and dedication, anything is possible. I have my family to thank for being great mentors! My grandfather opened his own Optometry practice in 1971, after a few struggles immigrating from Cuba in 1962. With just my grandfather, grandmother and very young mother, they worked hard and built up a successful Optometry practice, Suarez Optical, still owned and operated by the family. I worked there my whole life, and remember what my grandfather would say, “Treat everyone like family. You will gain their respect and trust, then everything else will follow.” So true. So, my iTRI Families, they are just that, family. I only hope to give them a great event where they can continue to grow, as athletes, as great humans.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We love places that are family friendly, which also includes the doggos. We love to walk around the Wynwood Walls and checkout the newest creations at local breweries and cafes. Our monthly visit to the Salty Donut reminds us of the balance we all need in our lives, yummy food and an active lifestyle. We love to ride our bikes as much as we can. Hollywood Beach and Key West are two family favorite destinations!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wouldn’t be who I am today without a few people that helped along the way. I have an amazing family that supports all the crazy ideas I come up with!! My husband V is my right-hand man, without him, none of my plans would go through. My girls are what keep me on my toes, striving to do more each day! My sister reminds me of the strength that we all have hidden away; no matter what curveball life throws your way, you MUST fight through it! My parents always keep my grounded and are the best cheerleaders. My grandparents showed me how to follow my dreams and be a successful community leader. My iTRI Families, for always supporting our efforts to bring fun events for the entire family! Finally, my leadership teacher from Southwest Miami Senior High School, Mrs. Treadway. She helped me find my voice and showed me how to put it to good use! She will always be with me every time I take a microphone. It takes a village and I am so psyched mine continues to grow.

Website: www.itrikidsracing.com

Instagram: @itrikidsracing

Facebook: @itrikidsracing

Other: https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Miami/iTRIKidsRacingSeries2020

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