Runner Turns Two Marathons into "My Pain, Their Gain" Charity Run 2004

Former Special Forces soldier dedicated two back-to-back 26.2 mile marathon runs to raise money for the children of fallen special operations troops.

(PRWEB) January 14, 2004 --Randy McCune is starting out the New Year by doing something that some people may think is crazy. He is running two 26.2 mile marathons in a two week period.

Last year, McCune raised more than $1,000 when he dedicated his participation in the Hops Marathon in Tampa to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides children of fallen special operations personnel with college scholarships. This year, he is doubling his efforts in the hope that his supporters will double theirs as well.

Last weekend, McCune was among the thousands of runners hitting the streets of the Walt Disney World Marathon in Orlando and in only two weeks he will run in the the Hops By-the-Bay Marathon in downtown Tampa, Jan. 25th.

To the crowds of spectators lining the streets he will be just another runner - just another number passing them by. But what they don't know is that Randy McCune is one of those quiet heroes who is running not just for himself - but also to benefit the 470 surviving children of fallen heroes.

An avid runner and former special forces soldier, McCune has always enjoyed running to stay physically fit and has completed 14 marathons. The camaraderie enjoyed with fellow runners is similar to that of being in the military, McCune explained.

"Many of the individuals that run these long races regardless of age are very akin to the special operations forces' unique spirit and attributes," said McCune. "For example, accomplishment and self pride, and a belief in mottos such as 'can do,' 'never quit,' and 'help your buddy.'"

It is that belief in helping others that gave McCune, who used to be assigned to 5th Special Forces Group, the idea of running for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. Nicknamed by McCune as the "My Pain, Their Gain 2-n-2" marathons, he is hoping to raise some money for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, an organization that provides four-year college scholarships for the children of special operations who lost a parent in an operational mission or training accident.

"I wanted to find a way that my running this marathon could spark an interest or challenge to others to contribute to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. I have known comrades from the 5th Special Forces that have sacrificed in Somalia and now in Iraq and Afghanistan," explained Randy. "Since I am no longer in uniform this is hopefully one small effort I can give on behalf of all special operations warriors."

Contributions can be made directly to the Warrior Foundation online at www.specialops.org. Please indicate that the contribution is being made in honor of Randy McCune's "My Pain, Their Gain" marathons.
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