Louis Nacer

The number 38 might not mean much to many, but for Louis Nacer it means a milestone. 38 is the amount of New York City marathons Louis has run. 1970 was the first race NYRR held, and in 1976, The New York Road Runners first introduced Five boroughs, where the running course introduced five bridges for the first time.  1980 was Louis’ first year participating in the New York City marathon.   Louis is not only a legendary runner but a legendary person for many other reasons besides his longevity as a runner.  He is a native of Ecuador, whose parents moved to Forest Hills in 1961.  According to Louis, they were the first Hispanic residents in a predominately Jewish and European neighborhood. Luis along with his two brothers had to assimilate fast.  Being in this unique position allowed Louis to be resilient and patient.  He learned to acclimate to his environment.   Louis started his career as a pharmaceutical representative which lead him to be a Regional Manager, where he specialized in various therapeutic medical roles as a Sales Manager for Bayer and as a consultant.

Louis got drafted to the Vietnam war in 1969, where he served our country. When he returned to the states in 1977, he decided to give up his corporate job and given his accounting skills, he started working as a High School math teacher.  He spent nearly 10 years teaching and making an impact on New York City youths. Louis also had a flair for entertainment. In 1967, he joined a popular pop-rock neighborhood band. His band played many of the popular pop-rock hits in the ’60s like Young Rascals, Mid Hour and Groovin.  Louis honed his entertainment skills performing in schools and catering halls.  He performed in well-known neighborhood areas like The Cue Club, a popular pool hall, where other famous entertainers visited.  He lived a life that only a rock star can relate. 

During this colorful and vivacious career, he never stopped doing what has been his vocation for 50 years…. RUN.  Louis at age 67 is an active runner, and runs an average of 25 miles a week, participating in open -runs and marathons throughout the boroughs of New York.  Louis is an inspiration to many.  He is well-known within the running community, and never hesitates to talk to newbie runners giving running advice.  I am honored to have Louie be a part of Running Stars.