Julia’s Team at The Great World Race

Julia Beckley has the opportunity to be the first female wheelchair athlete to attempt and complete 7 marathons, over 7 days on 7 continents. Beckley, a remarkable athlete from Northern Colorado, has an inspiring story that transcends mere athleticism.

Despite facing significant challenges, she has become an advocate for inclusivity in races and events. You are not wrong thinking what this might cost. Due to Julia’s need to have a minimum 3 person team of support runners and medical staff this is much higher than an individual entry.

Julia will need to raise $100,000 to cover the entire cost of the adventure for Julia and her team. This includes specialized gear and equipment for all of the team as you might imagine Antartica has a unique set of conditions to navigate.

Please consider a sponsorship for this journey. More information is available in the attached presentation and Julia is available to meet and share the journey.

Let’s delve into her journey:

· Diagnosis and Determination: Julia has multiple more than one rare conditions that haves impacted her life in unforeseeable ways. Julia was diagnosed with hypophosphatasia, a rare genetic bone disorder that renders her bones brittle and prone to fractures. Walking is the most her body can endure, but she yearned for more. Hereditary aAngioedema, mMast cCell disorder, and osteonecrosis are the other diagnosesdiagnosises that require Julia approach life differently. 5 years ago, she discovered the liberating power of a pushrim chair, commonly known as a racing wheelchair. This newfound mobility pulled her out of depression and grieving and ignited her passion for racing.

· Breaking Barriers: Julia’s determination led her to participate in marathons and races across Colorado. She became the first wheelchair athlete in over a decade to run the Colfax Marathon. Despite initial resistance from race organizers, Julia persisted. She wanted others to experience the same gift of athleticism that had transformed her life.

· Supportive Community: From 100 milers to 5Kks, Julia has constructed an phenomenal network of individuals who inspired to not only support Julia’s dreams, but also a vision of access to running in ways Colorado has not prioritized though supported. Julia’s fellow runners rallied around her. Friends run alongside her, pointing out potholes, providing medical supplies, and offering unwavering support. Their camaraderie has allowed Julia to breakJulia break down barriers for adaptive athletes. You may not think about ultrarunning with a girl in a chair, a holewhole in her neck (a trach, central line) but when you see her smile on course you too believe in greatness in yourself and others.

· Advocacy and Activism: Julia’s journey evolved from being an apologist to becoming an activist. She pushes for greater inclusivity, accessibility, and acceptance in races and events. Her story inspires us all to challenge norms, embrace diversity, and create a more inclusive sporting world. Julia has served as a chapter president for My Team Triumph, facilitated initiation of adaptive run club nights in Northern Colorado, organized athletes with disabilities for all abilities and many other contributions to the communityto community. Through her story, Julia inspires the community to challenge norms, embrace diversity, and create a more inclusive sporting world. Julia’s greatest memories are of those watching the kids and adults sit in a racing chair for the first time and feel like they are athletes again or maybe just beginning.

Julia Beckley’s resilience and passion remind us that obstacles can be overcome, and our actions can pave the way for positive change. ‍♀️