The Running Man Project was a unique convergence of art and sport, bringing the two disciplines together to benefit children. Twenty six life-size statues representing the 26 miles of a marathon were created to embody the future of our children as active, healthy, and vibrant members of the community.
The Running Man Statues were marveled at by all participants and spectators of the 2008 ING Miami Marathon®. As runners, friends, and the public walked into the Miami Beach Convention Center, they were welcomed by a parade of the twenty six statues. On race morning the statues were placed throughout Bayfront Park. The statues were seen on the main stage, in the candid photo line, and in the VIP, ING, and Media tents. After the race, a couple of statues were brought to CocoWalk for the after party.
The statues were such a hit that visitors lined up to take photos with the statues, imitating their running pose. By the end of the weekend it became clear that many people were willing to support the Running Man Project. In the coming weeks, we hope to raise additional funds for the Fit Miami Foundation by placing donated statues in an online auction.
After the voting from the public at the expo and the faculty of the Miami International University of Art & Design, four students received scholarships for their artwork. The top four statues are seen below.
1st Place: US Century Bank, Cathy-Mae Anderson
2nd Place: Flamingo, Carmen Guadalupe
3rd Place: Dripping, Danny Reyes
People's Choice: Faces, Guillermo Piloto
A special thanks from PR Racing Miami to the following individuals that played an integral part in the Running Man Project
Donors:
Bryant Kirkland
Chai Lifeline/Team Lifeline
David, Cindi, Hannah, Kyra, & Caleb Samson
Florida Marlins Community Foundation, Inc.
Fort Lauderdale AIA Marathon Kid's Race
Friends of ING
Greater Fort Lauderdale Road Runners Club
Hispanic USA
Miami Parking Authority (2 statues)
New Balance
Publix
Rumberger, Kirk, & Caldwell
U.S. Century Bank
University of Miami: Sport Administration Program
Vector Group Ltd.
Art Students:
Cathy-Mae Anderson
Alejandra Cicilia
Judith Emerson
Carmen Guadalupe
Guillermo Piloto
Danny Reyes
Faculty Supporters:
Ramon Fernandez-Bofill
Erika Fleming
Marcia Gomez
Mary Malm
Debra Pierce
