Maickel Melamed: A True Inspiration

Runners of a competitive nature often live each race pursuing after the quest of a goal; a new PR, a new PB, placing, etc. Some, however, just dream of competing. One of those such individuals is Maickel Melamed of Venezuela. At age 36, Melamed has been dealing with a rare birth defect called hypotonia. The defect causes the development of muscle tone to be rather minimal which makes partaking in any physical activity extremely difficult. Instead of giving in to the life that Melamed’s defect posed, he challenged it. And his form of challenge? The New York City Marathon. After a rigorous training regimen dominating nearly his entire week Melamed made it to the starting line this November. The day was not an easy on for Melamed but like with all scenarios set forth he faced it head on and completed the race in over 15 hours. This November, whenever I am having a moment of disparity, I am going to think of Melamed and push through. (Images: Romina Hendlin)