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Kapinowski to race in Japanese marathon Point Pleasant resident and wheelchair athlete Jacqui Kapinowski will be heading to Japan next month to compete in one of the most important races of her career. Ms. Kapinowski, 46, will be competing in the 28th Annual International Wheelchair Marathon on Nov. 9, in Oita, Japan, where she will be one of over 400 wheelchair racers in the largest race of its kind.
“I am so excited for this race,” said Ms. Kapinowski. “I’ve heard that it is an unbelievable experience.”
An avid athlete, Ms.
Kapinowski began racing in a wheelchair when she was diagnosed with Stiff Person
Syndrome several years ago. Since then, she has competed in over 20 marathons in
her pushrim
wheelchair, along with a countless number of smaller races around the In fact, Ms. Kapinowski recently finished third in her division while competing in the world’s largest marathon in Berlin. While in Germany, Ms. Kapinowski raced as part of the Achilles Track Club Freedom Team, an organization that introduces wounded veterans from Afghanistan and Iraq to racing, whether it is with their legs or a wheelchair. Ms. Kapinowksi was the only non-veteran on the team. “It was so amazing to race with these guys. They are so inspiring,” said Ms. Kapinowski. When she makes the trek to Japan next month, accompanied by her husband, Harry, Ms. Kapinowski will be doing so thanks to some local business that have sponsored her. According to Ms. Kapinowski, Stephen Roma, owner of Work Out World gyms, donated $500 to help pay for Ms. Kapinowski’s one-way airfare, which costs $1,500. “The race will pay for the flight back and our hotel, but the rest we have to come up with,” said Ms. Kapinowski. The racer also received a donation in the amount of $500 from the Point Pleasant Elks and CIGNA Health Care. “I am so grateful for all of my sponsors,” said Ms. Kapinowski. “I really appreciate them helping me to achieve one of my dreams.” |
