It was a beautiful fall day in Wisconsin, Sunday, October 2. Three thousand people participated in the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon while thousands more cheered them on. While many hoped to qualify for Boston, a group of 62 runners (Jennipede as they called themselves) set out to set a Guinness World Record of the most people tethered together to complete a marathon.

The team was captained by Runner’s World’s “Mayor of Running” Bart Yasso and included ultra-running legend Roy Pirrung (Wigwam athlete). Many members of Jennipede had never completed a marathon before and in order to qualify for the record, all runners had to finish the race in the same order they started. I was advised there were a few sprained ankles, a fall and severe cramps along the way but perseverance prevailed and I’m happy to say everyone finished. A new Guinness World Record has been made!

In addition to the record-breaking attempt, Jennipede raised over $108,000 for the rehabilitation care for fellow runner, Jenny Crain. Jenny, a world-class runner, suffered serious head and neck injuries after being severely injured on August 21, 2007, when hit by a car while training for the trials prior to the Beijing Olympics. Crain was in her wheel chair alongside the group for the last .2 miles and was at the finish line to receive a check for the money raised.

Wigwam socks were provided to team Jennipede as well as many spectators at the event. It truly was a very inspirational day for everyone.