A local resident is one of 25 runners selected to take part in this weekend’s National Down Syndrome Society Run for 3.21, a 260-mile relay taking place over three days to kick-off Down Syndrome Awareness Month and help to raise funds, awareness and acceptance for the Down syndrome community.
Mike Martin will be running his leg of the relay virtually near his State College home, mostly using a loop consisting of the Saybrook neighborhood and the bike paths connecting to the Penn State campus.
Originally scheduled for World Down Syndrome Day on March 21, the relay will now take place Friday through Sunday in-person between New York City and Washington, D.C. and virtually in local communities across the country. While a small group of runners will run the route as originally planned, a majority of the team, including Martin, will complete their run segments from home.
Martin said he got involved with the run and NDSS through the family of Keith Urgo, a Penn State men’s basketball assistant coach whose daughter Samantha has Down syndrome.
‘She is an absolute joy and puts a smile on anyone’s face,’ Martin said. ‘I am so honored to be a part of this amazing run and cause.’
To support Martin’s efforts, visit his NDSS fundraising page.
Virtual spectators can cheer on the runners by following NDSS on Facebook or Instagram and through the event app, RaceJoy
“This event is truly special for participants and our entire community,” Kandi Pickard, president and CEO of NDSS, said in a statement. “Our team of athletes have committed to this physical and fundraising challenge because of their passion for loved ones with Down syndrome. They are a diverse group of inspiring and experienced runners, all united to make a difference by raising funds and awareness for the work of NDSS. It’s been tremendous to see their commitment through the changes we’ve had to make to the event.’
Founded in 1979, NDSS is a human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome and ‘envisions a world in which all people with Down syndrome syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations and become valued members of welcoming communities,’ according to a release.
