May 9, 2006

Mejias & Rolling Thunder Athletes Train Together and Complete L.I. Half Marathon

Nassau County Legislator Dave Mejias (D-North Massapequa) had his sights set on, for the second time, completing the Long Island Marathon on May 7, 2006. In preparation, he has been training with some very special athletes to meet the challenge.

The athletes who have accompanied Legislator Mejias on some of his training sessions are from the Rolling Thunder Special Needs Program (RTSNP), a non-profit organization for physically and mentally challenged athletes. Rolling Thunder gives athletes an opportunity to train in all aspects of running, walking and fitness as they compete at all levels in mainstream competitions. The Rolling Thunder athletes are members of the Long Island Track and Field and the United States Track and Field.

 “Rolling Thunder is the first mainstream running, walking and cycling club in the country for the physically and mentally challenged,” said Legislator Mejias. “It is an honor and inspiration to continue training with these athletes and I enjoyed running with them during the marathon on May 7.”

Legislator Mejias was partnered with a runner from the Rolling Thunder to run with for several miles during the marathon. Last year several runners from the club completed the full and half marathons, according to RTSNP President Steve Cuomo.

PHOTO CAPTION: Nassau County Legislator Dave Mejias (D-North Massapequa) was pleased to join his running partner, Robbie, and other members of Rolling Thunder at a recent Long Island Marathon training session at Bethpage State Park.

“When our athletes are included in mainstream events, they gain self esteem and confidence,” said Cuomo. “This participation will help them become more independent in their everyday lives.”

Rolling Thunder athletes train 3-4 times a week and compete in more than 30 mainstream events each year.

For more information about Rolling Thunder Special Needs Program, call Steve Cuomo at 631-399-5564 or visit the website at www.rtsnp.org.