Meet Jessica
My specialty: Working with runners returning from injury or time away from the sport.
Head Coach and Founder, Jessica aka Sugar Runs
I started coaching in 2016 after a challenging experience with a male coach. I wanted to do better and lift up other female coaches in the process and Team Sugar Runs was born.
I had a lot of success in my early 30s running a 3:01 marathon and a 1:24 half. But I struggled with multiple injuries after having my son in 2021. I eventually stopped trying to “get back to where I was” and learned how to meet myself where I am—and I coach my athletes to do the same. My approach blends smart, sustainable training with the mental shifts that help you stay grounded and keep showing up for yourself and your goals.
Located in Newport Beach, CA
Want to work with me?
What Jessica’s Athlete’s Are Saying
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“I found my way to Coach J and TSR after a bust of a marathon season in 2021. Like the proverbial marathon wall, I had hit it with my raining and needed help! Now nearly 3 years later I barely recognize the runner I was before. Working with Coach J has pushed me to new limits and boundaries with my running I never thought were possible. I'll never forget our first lofty goal to beat my half marathon PR... 2+ years later, we've set even bigger goals I never imagined I would be chasing... and then hitting! With the most epic/ugly finish photos to go along with it. But the best goal of all Coach J has given me and taught me to achieve is to HAVE FUN - a goal I focus on for every workout, recovery, and race and it's one that makes every run a win!”
Sam
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![Annie running London Marathon]()
"Over the past 6 years Jessica’s guidance has helped me reach numerous running goals, but it has truly been invaluable for the past 18 months as I navigated a tricky set of injuries. She helped me to stay patient as we gradually built back up to continuous runs, supplementing with cross-training and strength work which built both my fitness and confidence and led to a very strong build for London this past spring. We just recently have been able to incorporate speed work again and I couldn’t be more excited to be starting my fall marathon training build! Thank you Coach J!"
Annie
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“Jessica helped me gain confidence to tackle scary, uncomfortable workouts with paces I would never set for myself. On race day, I was able to show up to the start line calm and confident in my training and ready to have a great, strong race! I'm so proud of the race I had at CIM and I'm grateful for the way Jessica has helped me grow in my running - mentally and physically.”
Katie
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“Jessica never stopped believing in my potential to get a sub-4, and she kept pushing me to be my best! Since 2018, she’s helped me take over 2 hours off of my marathon time and I have full confidence that that number will continue to grow. Working with her has not only changed my running, but has truly changed my life.”
Rosie
