They're ALL winners!

[John Angulat]

I just spent the last 4 days in Manhattan covering the NYC Marathon as part of a corporate shoot. I thought I'd post some images of those I believe are the REAL winners. Not the usual entrants who race professionally for cash. Not the first one across the finish line but images of those few who never let their handicap deter their spirit. I'd wish I had more, but I soon found myself happier by cheering, yelling, clapping and encouraging them on. These were all shot at the last 1/4 mile of the race.
Congratulations to all!

Best,
John

http://www.lightsimage.com
My place on the web

 

[Asher Kelman]

John,

A wonderful photographic report. This is so impressive for the understanding of the human spirit and people's sense of self worth and dignity. We are handicapped in relating to people with disabilities.

I am in awe of the tenacity and energy they have to devote to do what they do as athletes. It seems to me that their cycles are specially engineered. Each one seems built just for that one athlete. The 3rd image has the guy on the left racing a strange contraption. Is it powered from hand movement?

Amazing!

Asher

 

[John Angulat]

Hi Asher,
Thanks so much for the compliment. I too am in awe of the stamina and determination these athletes possess.
I also observed (as you had) many of the cycles were designed around the racer's particular disability. The one you mentioned was powered by a "push-pull" motion. Ingenious!
Best,
John

 

[John Angulat]

Here's one more I like to post.
Richard Whitehead, a 32 year old from Great Britain.
Amazingly, he finished the race with a 3:11:02 time.
That placed him 2959 out of a field of 38, 356!
Now that's determination!