Bio

Coach Blas Guerra is no stranger to running. At eight, he began running with his dad and brother. Blas continued running in junior high school while playing baseball and football. While at football practice in high school, he took a rough hit. His coach suggested he try Cross Country. Taking the coach's advice, on the first day of training, Blas participated in a three-mile time trial. As a freshman, he was the first runner back, finishing ahead of the juniors and seniors. At that moment, Blas knew Cross Country was his sport! Each year his time improved. The season ended abruptly during his senior year due to a lack of funding for the program. Blas and his brother entered Fun Runs. Running the Capitol 10K, his time of 30:56 gave him a 3rd place finish. For a 17-year-old, this was a great accomplishment!

Blas began his college career at Treasure Valley Community College (TVCC), working toward an associate's degree in General Studies. Blas ran XC and placed 27th at NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association). Upon graduation from TVCC, he attended Park College (University) in Parkville, MO, and majored in Business Administration.

As a student at Park College, Blas ran several marathons, the 10000, 5000, and XC. (Men's XC is 8K) Once again, XC was his signature sport! He set a PR of 24:31, making it the 3rd fastest time in school history. Further proving his love and embracing the challenge of running distance, he became an All-American in the Marathon.

Coach Guerra has participated in numerous marathons: Columbus, Sacramento, Portland, Kansas City, and the Great Potato in Boise. As you might imagine, he has run the Robie Creek 1/2 marathon several times and has the distinction of being a 5-time winner! Robie Creek is one of the "toughest 1/2 marathons in the northwest". Before returning to TVCC to coach Men and Women's XC/Track and Field in 2001, Blas ran for NIKE with Nike Portland.

Coach Blas Guerra has been the XC/Track and Field Men and Women's head coach at TVCC since 2001. He has developed a plethora of athletes. During his coaching career at TVCC, he has produced 33 All-American Academics and 76 All-American Athletes. Blas has been honored as 'Coach of the Year" (NWAC) four times for Men/Women's XC/Track and Field. He has successfully developed athletes and served as the springboard to propel them to personal development athletically and academically. Coach Guerra has several champions and athletes that have successfully transferred to four-year schools to further their studies and athletic career.

The Annual Bob McAlpine 5K Turkey Trot is Blas's signature community event. Both individuals and families gather each Thanksgiving morning to participate in this tradition. The motto for the Turkey Trot is: "run, walk or stroll so you can eat another roll!" The Turkey Trot serves as a memorial to former TVCC Coach Bob McAlpine and raises funds for the TVCC XC team - Go Chukars!