The 41st Annual Empire State Building Run-Up is the first and most famous tower race in the world, challenging runners to race up its famous 86 flights – 1,576 steps, a vertical distance of 1,050 feet. The 2018 ESBRU took place on Wednesday evening, February 7th, sponsored by Turkish Airlines and joined by the Challenged Athletes Foundation. CAF is the world leader in helping people with physical challenges lead active and healthy lifestyles and encouraging independence.
More than 200 people from around the world raced up the 86 stories to the famed observation deck. The CAF runners fundraise to help raise awareness and much-needed donations so people with permanent physical challenges gain access to adaptive sports equipment, athletic training, an active lifestyle, community and mentorship. Each CAF runner raises a minimum of $2500 for the charity.
Rich Romaine was a professional carpenter, having a passion for shaping and fitting wood for functional and practical purposes. After graduating from Cedar Grove High School, he continued his education at the County College, taking classes in building and carpenter architecture. In 1991 he and his brother started their own carpentry business.
In 1965, Dick Traum, 24, was filling his gas tank at a gas station when the car behind him jumped forward and crushed him between the 2 cars. As a result of his injuries, his right leg had to be amputated. In 1976, Dick found himself out of shape and approaching middle age. He decided to do something about it – he joined a YMCA and began running, small distances at first and building up to miles. By the end of the year, he became the first amputee to successfully complete the New York City Marathon.
As an active and respected member of the Prosthetics & Orthotics industry, Brooke Artesi is always packed to travel – conventions, legislative rallies, certification training for the latest technologies and the rare but welcome vacation – Brooke is always on the go.