It was rainy and chilly when the horn went off, signaling the start of the San Antonio Rock ‘n’ Roll 10K. Heather Lambert is easy to spot, donning bright pink socks up to her knees. She’s also easy to locate on the course because she’s typically in the front of the pack.
She maintained a pace of seven minutes and 30 seconds per mile, leading most of the race. She slowed down a few times, including once to cheer on a young boy, “about nine or ten years old,” who was losing steam during the home stretch. “Everybody loves winning,” Heather said. “But if me cheering him on builds his confidence, I’ll do it. It’s inherent in me to cheer people on.”
Heather has an amazing mindset when it comes to running. “We do it because we love it. I think some people forget what brought them to the starting line.” Taking time to motivate others in San Antonio probably cost her a first-place finish, but she didn’t care. Heather placed second but found even more joy in the celebration. “The girl who beat me was a military major. When I found out she was in the service, I felt an even bigger rush of happiness for her,” Heather said. She didn’t stop there—Heather introduced her to Team HOPE, continuing the cycle of support and connection.
Heather was introduced to HOPE in this way through a simple conversation with a fellow veteran in 2022, one year after she started transitioning out of the Army. What began as an opportunity to participate in races has become a supportive community. Heather speaks fondly of Jenna McDonald, HOPE’s Sports and Recreation Director, who has been a steadfast source of encouragement. “Jenna genuinely cares. She checks in on my training and always asks if I need anything. It’s not just about showing up; it’s about feeling supported.” Jenna makes a point to keep up with Heather’s race schedule, coming up with ideas and suggestions throughout the year. “To have someone open the door versus you knocking is pretty amazing.”
For Heather, running and swimming are more than just sports; they’re lifelines that help her navigate life’s most challenging moments. She recalls how swimming gave her a sense of peace and solace during difficult times, while running became her outlet to channel emotions, turning anger or sadness into clarity and positivity. “Swimming allows me to forget about everything going on in life,” she explained. “Running, on the other hand, lets me process my emotions. Whether I’m angry or sad, I run it out and come back with a clear mind and a positive outlook. It’s saved my life.”
After serving in Afghanistan from 2013 to 2014, Heather transitioned out of the Army in 2021. She candidly shared the challenges of going from senior leadership in the military to an entry-level corporate position, calling it a “rough adjustment.” However, Heather’s military discipline and resilience helped her climb the corporate ladder to her dream job as a senior auditor. “Discipline is what got me where I was in the military, and it’s what’s getting me where I deserve to be in corporate America,” she said.
Heather has countless medals, but there is one that she’s had her sights set on for years: Boston. Qualifying for the Boston Marathon is a goal that requires not only meeting strict time standards but also enduring months of disciplined training and perseverance. For Heather, qualifying represents more than just a race—it’s a culmination of her resilience and dedication to a lifelong dream. With a race in Houston on January 19, she’s hopeful this year will be the year she achieves her long-held goal. “I’ve been chasing this dream for two years. This is the first year it feels tangible,” she shared.
Heather credits Team HOPE with giving her the outlet to pursue her passions while balancing family life and career. “HOPE supports me in ways that allow me to choose my family and still reward myself,” she said. From financial assistance for races to emotional encouragement, Heather is grateful for the community that understands her military background and shares her passion for running.
Heather’s journey exemplifies the spirit of Team HOPE—a family that fosters resilience, builds connections, and celebrates achievements big and small. As she continues to train, inspire, and connect with others, Heather reminds us all why we show up at the starting line: for the love of the sport, the community, and the shared journey.
Heather is one of many veterans who have found hope, healing, and community through Team HOPE. If you’re a veteran, service member, or military family member interested in joining Team HOPE, we encourage you to learn more about our programs. Together, we can overcome any hurdle, find our strength, and push forward—one race at a time.
