BADWATER - HERE I COME AGAIN!!!

Well, it is official, I am going back to Death Valley and the Badwater 135 Mile endurance run. I did this run last year and just loved it (although the bottom of my feet hurt so much).

I received the following from the Badwater Race Office:
Hello Alan!
Congratulations! You have been accepted to compete in the 2009 Badwater Ultramarathon, presented by AdventureCORPS, Inc. You are part of a select group who will participate in what is recognized across the globe as the worlds toughest footrace.

The Badwater Ultramarathon describes itself as "the world's toughest foot race". It is a 135 mile (215 km) course starting at 282 feet (85 m) below sea level in the Badwater Basin (the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere), in California's Death Valley, and ending at an elevation of 8360 feet (2548 m) at Whitney Portal, the trailhead to Mount Whitney (the highest point in the Continental U.S.). It takes place July 14, 15 and 16, when the weather conditions are most extreme and temperatures over 120 F (49 C) in the shade are not uncommon. Only up to 90 people are invited to participate each year in this event and I was lucky enough (?) to be invited.

I am already starting to put together my crew and have some great volunteers!! Like last year, I will use my race to raise money for charity. Of course I will fundraise for Badwater's official charity: the Challenged Athlete Foundation.I am using my Badwater Ultramarathon as a means to raise funds for CAF to help it help people with physical disabilities pursue an active lifestyle through physical fitness and athletics. CAF’s mission is clear: give those with the desire to live active, competitive lifestyles every opportunity to compete in the sports they love.

I would appreciate your help here - any amount will help others realize their goals. Here is my fundraising link: DONATE




I also intend to also try and raise funds to help fight ALS - Lou Gehrig Disease. I will post that information as soon as possible.

I will keep you updated on my training and race developments!