I remember the first time I went for a run. It was ugly. Something as simple as moving one foot in front of the other became very complicated. After conquering a block and a half, I couldn’t see straight… but it felt good. There was a sense of accomplishment, of freedom, of pain, and the chance to move forward.

Anne Mahlum would certainly agree. She is the founder of Back on My Feet- a nonprofit organization that promotes self-sufficiency within Philadelphia’s homeless population by using running as a means to build confidence, strength and self-esteem.

So who better then to establish Philly’s first ever 24hr relay race. Called the 20 in 24-This race begins this Sat at 10am in front of Lloyd Hall at the beautiful historic Boathouse Row. Teams of five will each take turns to run loops that range from 8.4 to 33.4 miles

But if you’ve always felt that you do things better solo, feel free to compete in the lone ranger (ultra marathon) whereas the mileage can go up as high as 100 miles. Yikes!

Wait; there is a third option, which by far if not the most interesting, is the most entertaining to watch. When the clock strikes midnight Sat night- hundreds will compete in Philly’s first ever Glow-in-the Dark Run. It’s only 8.4 miles but you get to wear glow in the dark paint or other reflective gear. There is even an award for the most illuminated runner! Fabulous!

Weekend warriors, even if you can’t see yourself running this kind of mileage, Back on Your Feet is looking for volunteers to help out. Drop them a line. This is going to be huge!

The 20in24 Relay Race!
www.20in24.com

Back On My Feet
www.backonmyfeet.org

Lloyd Hall @ Boathouse Row
Check in times start at 10AM