Ultra-Distance runner’s trek to fight cancer stretches over 130 Miles

May 11, 2016–In June, ultra-marathoner Roy Wiegand will face a unique challenge in order to help alleviate the struggles of others. Wiegand will tackle his third “Roy’s Run for Christopher” to benefit children’s cancer research, and Spenco Medical Company will support him every step of the way.

On June 3, Wiegand kicks off a 131-mile course starting at the Burbank Tennis Center in Burbank, California. Spenco sponsors Wiegand’s efforts by providing him with the company’s ultra-supportive insoles, recovery shoes and other products.

“Roy plans to run the equivalent of five marathons in 29 hours, and we want to help make his journey as comfortable as possible,” said Jeff Antonioli, Spenco’s vice president of sales and marketing. “As he tests his physical limits, we’re proud to sponsor him as a member of Team Spenco.”

Wiegand will make two stops — at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Children’s Hospital Orange County — before returning to Burbank for a celebration on June 4. His goal is to raise $15,000. All proceeds will go to the Michael Hoefflin Foundation for Children’s Cancer.

“The foundation helps support families of kids with cancer,” Wiegand said. “You can’t really put the impact of cancer into words. It makes you count your blessings and appreciate your health.”

Each year, Wiegand runs in honor of Christopher Wilke, his son’s friend who died from cancer at age 12. Last July, he ran 100 miles in 24 hours. The proceeds from that run and his run in 2013 totaled more than $24,000 in donations for the cancer foundation.

Wiegand has competed in 10 marathons, including the Boston Marathon in 2008 and one ultra-marathon of 60 miles. In 2013, he completed a seven-day, 250-mile run for Lifewater International, which helps residents of remote third-world villages build and maintain their own wells.

The Burbank resident said he averages between 35 and 60 miles a week running and another 50 to 75 on a bicycle — a feat Spenco products help him achieve.

“I always use Spenco insoles,” he said. “There’s no way I could ever run without them.” Wiegand favors Spenco’s Ironman Train insoles for long-distance running.

When he’s not in running shoes, he wears Nomad Mocs. “They are a lot more supportive than average shoes, and help tremendously with recovery,” Wiegand said.

You can support Roy’s Run for Christopher on the Michael Hoefflin Foundation website, or on Facebook.

Source: Spenco