Wings For Life Run
Wings for Life World Run is a global charity race held annually since 2014 on the first weekend of May. Rather than requiring participants to complete a set distance, it challenges each runner to continue until a Catcher Car overtakes them. The race takes place simultaneously in numerous locations worldwide. Consequently, participants in Europe and Africa typically begin around midday, those in Asia and Australia run later in the day, and runners in the Americas might start in the early morning or at night. All registration fees support the Wings for Life foundation's research into spinal cord injuries and paraplegia, with Red Bull covering organizational expenses. Each location sets up a long course, potentially up to 100 km, though most participants do not cover such distances. Thirty minutes after the start, the Catcher Car begins at 14 km/h, increasing its speed by 1 km/h every half hour. When the car passes a runner, their race concludes, and their result is the distance achieved. Buses transport overtaken runners back to the starting area, accommodating beginners, club athletes, and professionals concurrently. The foundation was established by motocross world champion Heinz Kinigadner and Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz. Kinigadner's personal history, involving his brother and son who use wheelchairs after accidents, lends a personal connection to the cause.
