On Sunday 9 May, 184 236 runners from 195 nations ran for those who can’t in the eighth-annual Wings for Life World Run. A total of 4.1 million euros was raised for spinal cord research through entry fees and donations. Sweden’s Aron Anderson (66,8 km) won the men’s race for the third time after victories in 2017 and 2018, while Russia’s Nina Zarina (60.2 km) took her third consecutive title, following wins in 2019 and 2020. In South Africa, ASICS FrontRunner Admire Muzopambwa won his second title, covering 50.4km on the App in Johannesburg.
“It felt really great winning again for those who can’t,” Admire said afterward. “This event for me is not about racing but raising funds for a good cause. The more km we add, I feel the closer we get to finding a cure for spinal cord injuries.”
“The event is close to my heart and being part of it is very fulfilling. It feels as though that you have in some small way helped move a mountain for someone’s life to be better."
The eighth edition of the Wings for Life World Run was a spectacular event that not only brought the global running community together, but also had a lot to offer as a race: Some ran alone, or in myriad small groups, across sun-scorched countries in central Europe, at times with snow-capped mountains in the background, while others were running along ocean shores in the dawn or dusk hours; and one woman was even spotted running through tall grass in Africa as giraffes looked on. Weather conditions in the 151 countries varied enormously, from cold rain in Ireland and Spain to snowfall in Norway and hot sunny weather in Greece.
The worldwide field of participants started off at exactly the same time at 11:00 UTC, but not at the same place. However, the runners and wheelchair users were connected virtually through the Wings for Life World Run App. That provided the basis for the special community experience that was enhanced with inspirational comments and messages from the drivers of the virtual Catcher Car, which began pursuit as a moving finish line 30 minutes after the runners’ start. Through the app, participants were able to experience that long-forgotten event feeling again.
According to Admire running on the App did present a few special technical challenges but nothing he was unaccustomed to. “Running with the app is quite fun because you are in control and informed about the second runner and the distance between you and the catcher car,” he said.
“The one thing I had to manage carefully was my phone’s battery life. As the battery was running out I had to make use of a power bank from 22kms to 45. From there my phone was at 12 % which got me to finish.”
The date for the ninth edition of the Wings for Life World Run has already been set. The next run will take place on May 8, 2022. Registration is already open.
All results as well as information on how to register for the 2022 run can be found at www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com.
Read more about what went down at the 2021 event, here.
