There are many problems in the world we cannot solve, but lack of safe drinking water is not one of them! The cure is simple and inexpensive. All it takes is some commitment, engagement and desire.
1. Five nation relay team 2. Local girlscout relay team
It is hard to believe that it has been more than a year since we finished our foot race around the world to bring attention to the global water crisis. And it was only until last year that the idea of a run around the world for humanity was a vision and for most of us an impossible dream. But on September fifth, 2007, under a clear blue-sky, we celebrated our global roundabout in New York City, amidst family and friends and curious bystanders. And now as our footprints of the past are fading away in those far away places we traveled on foot, it is important to walk together and step into the future, leaving new footprints, because our mission to bring safe drinking water to the world is far from over.
There have been numerous rewarding “Blue Planet moments” since that final day on the run in September. Over one hundred and fifty water projects have been funded as a result of fundraising and awareness efforts, and the global water crisis is being debated like never before! And who could have imagined that one of those official team pictures taken after our final sprint through Manhattan would make it all the way into the December issue of Runners World magazine? But it did, under the topic of “Heroes of Running” the blue planet runners were selected one of ten recipients for this prestigious annual award. What a surprise and great honor!
Picture Runner's World magazine (11/07)
With the support of many friends and associates, I have been able to present the blue planet run message to local school districts, corporations and athletic clubs. We organized local runs and fundraisers and in April participated in a 24-hour trail run in the North Carolina Black Mountains, with all proceeds going to world wide water projects! At the end of last year, the Blue Planet foundation published an incredible book addressing the global water problems, its root causes and solutions, and dedicated a full chapter on the Blue Planet run. This is an educational read with many illustrations and diagrams and can be previewed and purchased from the blue planet website. A truly wonderful way to support the cause and at the same time a 240-page hard covered photographic masterpiece worthy of your coffee table, corporate lobby or school library.
1. Walnut creek middle school 2. Woodmont academy track team
Yes, we are collectively responsible to take care of one and other, near and far, no matter what creed, color or religion. Only by our actions can we be an example to our children, so that they can learn this most valuable life lesson and sustain this obligation from generation to generation. Problems like access to safe drinking water can easily be solved for millions of people around the world in our lifetime. It all begins with awareness, so please forward the blue planet network website to family and friends and like and share my Blue Planet Ride Facebook Fan page. In October we organized the first ever 30-mile challenge and sportively raised over $20,000, enough money to build water wells for three schools in Tanzania! There are so many little things we can do to make a big difference in the lives of others. Thank you for all your wonderful comments, support and continued interest. Water is life. Pass it on!
