Wings for Life Run - We run for all those who cannot run

We run for all those who cannot walk.

Wings for Life is a foundation that supports research to cure paraplegia. This foundation was established in 2003 by Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz after the son of two-time motocross world champion Heinz Kinigadner became paraplegic in an accident. To advance the progress of research in this field, Wings for Life organizes international conferences where scientists from all over the world can exchange ideas. In addition, projects in basic and preclinical research are funded in order to be able to investigate the disease processes and find possible therapies. Medical interventions and potential drugs also have to be tested in clinical trials before they are officially approved. Wings for Life uses a portion of its funding to support such studies.

"The question is not if effective treatments will be found, but when."

The money to support research reaches Wings for Life in a variety of ways. Whether it's private donations, charity events, fundraisers or sales of products from the Wings for Life collection, 100% of the donations go to promising research projects worldwide.

One global fundraising event is the Wings for Life World Run, which was held for the first time in 2014. The entry fees for the run, just like all other donations, go directly to spinal cord research. But the Wings for Life World Run is no ordinary run - it's "the only race where the finish line chases you." The so-called "Catcher Car" drives behind the runners 30 minutes after the race begins at a set speed, which is gradually increased. Anyone overtaken by the "Catcher Car" is eliminated from the race. The last man or woman in the world still on the course will be "crowned" the Wings for Life World Run Champion.

Pictures: Wings for Life