Chilean Miner to Compete in NYC Marathon

JONATHAN EISEMAN NBC New York 11/01/2010 17:56

A rescued Chilean miner who kept in shape by running the tunnels while he was trapped underground will put the training to good use when he competes Sunday in the 26.2 miled ING New York City Marathon, race officials said Monday.

Marathon officials had invited Edison Pena to watch the race after hearing his story when the miners were rescued last month.

They thought he could ride in the lead vehicle or hold the finish line tape, but never expected the Chilean consulate to tell them Pena wanted to run.

"He absolutely, 100 percent wants to participate,'' New Yor Road Runners President Mary Wittenberg said at a luncheon Monday.

“The ING New York City Marathon is all about inspiration and perseverance, and those values were never more evident than during the survival and rescue of Edison and his brothers in that mine,” said Wittenberg.

"He demonstrated how running can play an important role in our physical and emotional well-being under any circumstances. On behalf of the entire City of New York, we are honored to have him join us for this year’s race," she said.

Source

Add your comment Send Print Report