Running proud - US sporting goods makers rally to NY marathon cause
The New York City Marathon taking place November 4 will not be subject to any route change caused by the September 11 attack on New York and the USA but it will no doubt be a very emotional event. The route which goes through five boroughs does not go near the site of the World Trade Centre disaster in lower Manhattan. However, it is being dedicated to the victims of the disaster and to the courageous rescuers, firemen and policemen who continue to work tirelessly on site.
In the immediate aftermath,
many companies involved in performance wear and footwear making generous donations of both money and merchandise to the rescue effort. One of these was Optimer, Inc., of Wilmington, DE. The company had donated several hundred of its 'Dri-release' shirts to the relief effort. "In my mind’s eye," said John Moore, the company’s president, "I was certain that they would sit in a pile unused and at the end of the day, it would just have made me feel better but not helpany of the relief workers." He was wrong.
Some weeks later, the company received a call from the wife of one of the missing firefighters asking if she could buy 25 Dri-release shirts. She said that the firefighters received the shirts and loved them. She wanted to buy some and have them imprinted with her husband’s firehouse number and his name for use by a group of runners who are helping to raise money. Needless to say the company sent her 50 free shirts. John Moore’s mind was completely changed about the value and continuing need to help the relief effort.
The theme for the 2001 event is ‘United We Run’ and ribbons printed with the slogan will be distributed to all runners, staff and volunteers as a means of honouring the victims. ‘I Love NY’ tattoos and/or buttons also will be distributed to all participants. Organising body New York Road Runners is aiming to raise one million dollars to assist the victims of the tragedy and has pledged its support to two funds: the United Way September 11th Fund and the City of New York Twin Towers Fund.
