We were given a MISSION and chose to accept it. The MISSION is to bring awareness around the world that a person's age or physical imperfection does not determine what they can accomplish. Older people, people with disabilities, and even people with life-threatening diseases can and do share the same active lifestyle that society has believed to be limited to the young. Don Fallis 65, from Hawaii, a type 2 diabetic, will be competing in the 135 mile Badwater Ultramarathon, in Death Valley, in July when the temperature reaches 120-130 degrees. The runners travel entirely on foot, basically uninterrupted, in order to complete the distance in the allotted 60 hours. Since the race supplies no aid, Don will be joined by 6 tough, experienced athletes, who will make up the Mission Possible Force (MPF) Team. With an average age of 63, they will alternate between pacing Don on foot and crewing from support vans. Pacing and crewing this particular race is quite an accomplishment in itself, for, in addition to the heat and the distance, the race starts at the lowest point in the U.S. at -282 ft. at Badwater, and crosses two mountain ranges, finishing at the portals of Mt. Whitney at 8,360 ft. elevation. The field of 90 invited entrants, from 15 countries, includes some of the top endurance athletes in the world. The goal will be to finish.
One of the main reasons that this particular race was chosen, is that this race also has a mission. They use this event to bring aid and awareness to that very special group of people known as challenged athletes. These are athletes that despite incredible odds continue to show us the real meaning of the triumph of the human spirit. Part of our goal in this endeavor is to help raise money for this worthy cause and if you would like to join us with your support for the Challenged Athlete Foundation, please click on the link provided at the upper left of this page. We invite you to look around this site to learn more about Don's adventure and encourage you to go out and challenge yourself as well. Click here to read a good article about the Badwater race. Aloha !
It takes an incredible individual to run Badwater...and Don is an incredible individual. You're an inspiration partner - go for it!
Slow & Cold Bob
Posted by: Bob Murphy | February 20, 2007 at 12:25 PM
What a great first week!!! I can't wait to hear the next story...you rock, Coach!!
Posted by: Wendy, RTS Trainee & "Legend" | February 23, 2007 at 06:25 PM
Never a doubt when it comes to Don. He'll finish with a smile as always. Go get 'em Don and enjoy the journey there and back. - Paul
Posted by: Paul Sibley | March 12, 2007 at 10:34 AM
Don, I look forward to reading about your killer training! You are such an inspiration. I just wish I could be there to help you get ready for such an awesome event!
Posted by: Judy Carluccio | March 13, 2007 at 08:57 AM
When an amazing man DOES somthing equally amazing, it makes the people who loves and care about him want to show their gratitude for all that he has done for them. So please accept our (in my case) small contributions as a way of thanking YOU for being YOU!!!!!!
Posted by: Shannon | March 20, 2007 at 07:12 AM
Don, I wish you and your awesome crew the best. There is no doubt in my mind that you will finish. The work is done ... now have fun!
Posted by: Brian | July 18, 2007 at 05:27 PM
Keep pushing Don! You're at mile 72+ and still moving (I think). It's hard to know how you are doing except at the check points. So the next one is at mile 90. Keep it up!!!
Posted by: Paul Sibley | July 24, 2007 at 07:46 AM
oh'right!!
Posted by: brian | July 24, 2007 at 06:14 PM
Don, the old guys are pulling for you. Not to put too much weight on you, but you're representing the best the senior contingent has to offer. Giddyup!
Posted by: Osheroff | July 24, 2007 at 06:24 PM