The Wings For Life World Run is not a conventional run. During it, all participants in all countries of the world start at the same minute, whether it is night or day. Those who ran in Lithuania were lucky – they started on the second day. Part of the enthusiasts who wanted to better feel the atmosphere of togetherness gathered together to start running in Vingios Park, others ran anywhere, wherever they were comfortable. What’s more, 30 minutes after the start of the run, a virtual CATCHER CAR started, the speed of which increased every half hour. When she covered the same distance as the runner, that is, when the app caught him, the run for the year was over for him. This is a good motivation to achieve better and better results every year and a fun spice that adds dynamism to running.
Runners had the opportunity not only to exercise and have a good time, but at the same time contribute to the funding of research aimed at treating spinal injuries. Their goal is to help people who have suffered injuries to get back on their feet and enjoy life. Since Wings For Life started, until this year’s run, 43.8 million euros have already been collected for research into the treatment of spinal injuries and 276 research studies have been funded. Every euro goes directly to them, as all administrative costs are covered by Red Bull. How much was collected this year, the organizers will announce later.
The Delfi initiative “(Ne)matomi” also contributed to the implementation of this run, which aims to build bridges between people with disabilities, their organizations and society, to speak loudly about issues relevant to people with disabilities, and to share inspiring stories of their achievements. Arnas Skardžius, head of Delfi’s sales group, said he joined this run for two reasons.
“First, because I really like to move – run, walk, drive, swim, lift or push. But not everyone can do it, so I ran together for those who can’t and I’m happy to contribute to special research – to find a cure for spinal cord injuries so that everyone can enjoy freedom of movement. The second is the sense of unity when thousands of people all over the world come together at the same moment and do the same thing for this noble cause. For those who haven’t tried it, it’s hard to even imagine how it happens. I am happy with everyone who joined and ran together. As the organizers say – “Together we will find a cure for spinal injuries!” he said.
Delfi journalist Dalia Plikūnė said that when she found out about the workplace’s decision to contribute to a social initiative that will collect funds for spinal injury treatment research, and the invitation to employees to participate, she had no idea not to run: “This run is different from many other similar sports holidays , attracting masses of running enthusiasts. Here, like nowhere else, it’s not the result that matters, but the participation.”
“When we get caught up in our daily routines, we sometimes forget what’s around us. Therefore, this run was a very good opportunity to remember those for whom walking is not a matter of course. I believe that such initiatives help draw the public’s attention to diseases and disabilities that can change our lives in an instant,” said the Delfi man who participated in the run. deputy editor Ugnė Karaliūnaitė.
