Running Marathons for the Red Cross

Walter Schaller runs the Kilimanjaro Marathon

Then climbs Mt. Kilimanjaro the following day!

Calling it "preparation for the 2010 Boston Marathon," Walter Schaller traveled to Africa to participate in the Kilimanjaro Marathon on Feb. 28, 2010, and followed that up by climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro the very next day!

Here is Walter's update to kick off the 2010 season of fundraising for The Dayton Area Chapter of the American Red Cross through the Schaller Runners' Fund:.

It's time once again to get serious about the Boston Marathon and, more importantly, about our fundraising efforts! I would like to take this opportunity to offer my heartfelt thanks to all of you who continue to support me in my running and in my efforts to raise much-needed money for the American Red Cross.

When we started this project 'way back in 1997, I thought our long-term goal of $262,000 ($10,000 for each mile of a marathon) was a lofty aspiration. Thanks to all of you, it has now been six years since we soared past that mark!

Now, as we begin the 2010 season, I am happy and very proud to announce that our total stands at more than half a million dollars-- $510,000 and still climbing!.

It is so gratifying for me--and important to you, I know--that all those funds have stayed right here in the Dayton area, helping our friends and neighbors in need. Let's not stop here!

2010 Boston Marathon Update

This year's race, to be run on Monday, April 19, will be my 14th consecutive Boston. It is very rewarding for me to be able to continue to participate in this elite event, but, more importantly, I am proud of the good work we are able to do together. I have no words to express my gratitude for your gracious contributions. Because of your kindness and generosity, help will be available when the need arises in the Dayton area.

Website Features

While you're here, we welcome you to browse around our little website. Currently in the Highlights section, you can read about The Western States Endurance Run, a torturous 100-Mile run through the Sierra Nevada, which I completed in 30 hours in 2003.

There is a small Photo Gallery featuring pictures of my participation in the Official Olympic Torch Relay for the 2002 Salt Lake Olympics. My selection to carry the Olympic Torch remains one of the great honors of my life.

And you can read a short History of the Schaller Runners' Fund on our About Page. Look for more features and photos soon!

Again, your kindness and generosity are sincerely appreciated and they make a great difference to those in need of help.

Together, we can save a life.

Walter Schaller
Board Member Emeritus
Dayton Chapter, American Red Cross