05/28/2014 | By: Guest Contributor
In a global run that was not defined by a finish line, the VisitandCare.com team joined Wings for Life on May 4th to benefit spinal cord research.
As one of the world’s leading research funding organizations, Wings for Life, raised more than $4 million at the first ever World Run.
"I think we can say this was a very huge success," stated Colin Jackson, International Sports Director. "People all over the globe said how much they enjoyed this unique race and can't wait for next year."
The Global Event — Running For Those Who Can’t
In 34 locations spread over six continents, the global event seen runners in Australia preparing for a sunset stroll, runners in India pushing themselves through the intense heat, a hyped Turkish crowd gliding amongst the beautiful backdrop, droves of racers jogging through the glistening rain in South Africa and Californians pacing through nightfall.
The remarkable first-of-its-kind event encompassed 35,397 runners. Running through some of the world’s most unbelievable and diverse landscapes, the race was open to all ranks of contenders.
While each participant embarked on their own personal goal, runners were competing with the official Catcher Car— which was deployed 30 minutes after the race's start — to catch each runner and ultimately deciding theirrace fate.
“It was incredible to see the masses of individuals come together to support one cause. Each individual made such a significant statement by participating. The real winners are those that are effected by spinal cord injuries. Their physical and humanitarian strength is an inspiration to everyone,” stated Tolga Umar, CEO and Founder of VisitandCare.com
VisitandCare.com Race Results from Alayna, Turkey
Fatih Ozturk 7.57 miles (161st) Race No. 6678 Nation - Turkey
Gisel Soriano 5.6 miles (78th) Race No. 6677 Nation - Mexico
Maha Issawi 4 miles (129th) Race No. 6680 Nation - Tunisia
Brandie Umar 3.99 miles (131st) Race No. 6672 Nation - USA
Tolga Umar 3.42 miles (397th) Race No. 6684 Nation - Turkey
Abir Dhahbi (result n/a) Race No. 6683 Nation – Tunisia
Spotlight — Wings for Life Research Foundation
Wings for Life is a not-for-profit spinal cord research foundation. The foundation funds superlative scientific research and clinical trials aimed at curing devastating spinal cord injuries.
Two-time Motocross World Champion Heinz Kinigadner and the founder of Red Bull, Dietrich Mateschitz created Wings for Life. Strongly invested into funding spinal cord research, Kinigadner and Mateschitz set out with the prolific goal of finding ways to cure all individuals affected.
The foundation is dependent on donations from individuals and companies — with 100 percent of all donations used for research purposes and all administrative costs generously covered by the Red Bull Company.
Quick Facts on the World Run 2014
Youngest Runner – 18
Oldest Runner – 92
Runners Still Running at 1 Hour Mark – 29847
Runners Still Running at 2 Hour Mark – 5146
Runners Still Running at 3 Hour Mark – 327
Runners Still Running at 4 Hour Mark – 26
Runners Still Running at 5 Hour Mark – 3
Total Distance Ran – 530928 km
