Graduate transfer student Marlene Gutierrez is a thrower for the UTRGV Women’s Track & Field Team. Gutierrez graduated from the University of California, Davis, where she claimed gold medals in both the hammer and shot put at the Big West Outdoor Championships. At UTRGV, she is a program-record holder in Women’s Hammer Throw, where her 61.8-meter throw secured her spot in university history.
Q: How was the transition from California to Texas?
A: “It’s [kind of] funny. I went from one valley in California to the Valley here in Texas, which is fun. I would say that the weather has gotten me by surprise because of the humidity. But, overall, I like the overall feel of family. I [kind of] got that in California, and I get that here, which is awesome.”
Q: How do you like to spend most of your free time?
A: “Well, I feel like a lot of it goes towards sports, so the most free time I have, I have to stick to, like, the books, and doing all my other stuff for my master’s program. But other than that, when we do get the chance, the team and I have gone to the beach to go hang out. Just, [you know], having a good time out there and that’s that.”
Q: Would you say you have a sense of community with your team?
A: “Yes, definitely. I think that’s what’s helped with the transition, because everyone’s so nice, and motivating each other. And because of the family feel, it’s really cool to have friends like them.”
Q: What is your favorite animal and why?
A: “OK, I’m gonna say a turtle, because they live really long and they are super calm, live a cool life, and I don’t know, I feel like they represent a lot of wisdom. So, super cool. I love turtles!”
Q: What are some of your favorite shows or movies?
A: “Well, I just finished watching ‘Grey’s Anatomy.’ That’s just the most recent one that I have. Movies, ‘Shrek.’ ‘Shrek’ has gotta be it, all the way, all the ‘Shrek’ movies. I like [‘Shrek Forever After.’] It’s kinda funny. I mean, I feel like all the movies have not disappointed me. I loved it.”
Q: Do you like listening to music while training?
A: “Yes, always. I always bring my phone out and I always have it on because it [kind of] helps me not think about throwing too much, so it’s, like, a more chill day. It just depends on the day and the vibe. ”
Q: Are you looking to go pro or do you want to have a career in your major?
A: “I have been thinking about that a lot lately. I’m definitely growing where I wanna grow at, so I do wanna go pro eventually if I had the opportunity. I do have my career as … a priority as well so it’s [kind of] hard to put one over the other, but right now, all I can do is give my all in both while I can. And eventually, who’s to say I can’t be in my career, and also throw on the side? So, we’ll see.”
–Compiled by Julien Juarez
