THE EVENT TAKES PLACE ON MAY 8TH
Wings For Life World Run: The largest running event in history is right around the corner
May 4, 2022, 1:17 pm
THE EVENT TAKES PLACE ON MAY 8TH
Houstonians and beyond are invited to be a part of the Wings for Life World Run on May 8 to raise funds for spinal cord injury research.
In exactly 4 days, runners, walkers, and wheelchair rollers have the chance to participate in what has become the single largest running event in history. With 184,236 registered participants across 195 different nations in 2021, the Wings for Life World Run has become a true global phenomenon. On May 8, 2022 at 6am CST, the start signal will sound for the 9th annual edition as participants around the globe will be united during the run via the Wings for Life World Run App and the unique Audio Experience that will inform, entertain, and motivate the participants.
If running in a group is what motivates you, have no fear! Those located in the Houston metroplex are invited to join their choice of organized Wings For Life event runs. One taking place at the University of Houston outdoor track, which will feature a DJ, breakfast snacks, plenty of Red Bull and water, and perhaps even a visit from a Red Bull athlete. This event is welcome to runners, walkers, and wheelchair users. Those looking to explore the Houston landscape and challenge their personal record, there will also be an organized run at Eleanor Tinsley Park (within Buffalo Bayou Park) accessible from Allen Parkway, where participants can load up on pre-run snacks, fruit, Red Bull and water.
Both events will begin at the same time as all others around the globe - in Texas at 6am CST/7am EST/4am PST/1pm CET, etc. There is no set finish line. Instead, 30 minutes after the start signal, the virtual Catcher Car will start moving within the App and gradually accelerate to overtake the participants one by one. As soon as the virtual Catcher Car has passed the runner, their race is over, and they are knocked out of contention.
A total of nearly $5 million dollars was raised for spinal cord research in 2021 through entry fees and donations, while a total of 1,029,513 miles were completed - the equivalent of running more than 41 times around the globe.
“The excitement is really building up. Last year was overwhelming considering the circumstances, and this year we want to grow even bigger because we have created a really bold vision that by 2025 we aim to have 1 million runners in the Wings For Life World Run,” said Anita Gerhardter, global CEO of the non-profit foundation Wings For Life. “Everyone can participate, this is the beauty of this run because the finish line comes from behind. So if you stroll or take a power walk you might just be covering a few miles, but if you’re sportier you might complete 10, 20 or even 30 miles. But it doesn’t matter, it’s just you against your own personal goal.”
Anyone who feels like participating can now download the Wings For Life World Run App, register, and train with the virtual Catcher Car during a Preparation Run. All information about Wings For Life World Run and how to participate can be found at www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com.
The Houston Astros wrapped up yet another series win this week, this time taking two of three from the struggling Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Despite missing several key players and a bullpen that wasn’t fully available, the Astros continued their recent run of success, pushing their record to 52-35.
Manager Joe Espada appeared to be playing the long game in the rubber match on Thursday. After Houston rallied to tie the game in the seventh inning, Espada stuck with reliever Jordan Weems instead of turning to his high-leverage arms. That decision, while frustrating to some fans hoping for the sweep, underscored the team’s cautious approach to workload management as they navigate a long season.
One bright spot continues to be rookie Cam Smith, who delivered again in the clutch with a two-run triple in the seventh inning on Thursday. Smith has been Houston’s most dependable bat with runners on base and is quickly settling into the cleanup role—a rarity for a first-year player but one he’s earned with his poise and production.
Astros cleanup hitter RBIs this season:
Cam Smith: 10 RBIs in 7 games
All others: 28 RBIs in 80 games
— Matt Kawahara (@matthewkawahara) July 3, 2025
Off the field, the biggest storyline continues to be Yordan Alvarez’s injury. After reports surfaced that the slugger had experienced a setback in his return from a fractured hand, the team clarified that the issue is inflammation, not the fracture itself. Astros general manager Dana Brown said Alvarez received injections to address the irritation and is expected to rest for now. Encouragingly, the Astros say the fracture is no longer a concern, and while there’s still no definitive timeline for his return, the overall tone from the club was optimistic.
The transparency around Alvarez’s situation is part of a larger shift. After being criticized in recent seasons for vague injury updates, the Astros have begun issuing daily availability reports. It’s a move that signals the front office is trying to regain some trust with the media and fans after a stretch of frustrating ambiguity around player health.
Now, the Astros head to Los Angeles for a marquee matchup with the defending champion Dodgers. Friday’s opener will feature Lance McCullers Jr. making just his second start since returning from the injured list. McCullers gave up eight runs in his return against the Cubs and will be under the spotlight as he looks to settle back into form. Control will be the key, as walks have long been McCullers’ Achilles’ heel.
Saturday sets the stage for one of the most anticipated pitching matchups of the season: Framber Valdez versus Shohei Ohtani. With both teams fighting for positioning in their respective divisions, this weekend in LA should serve as a measuring stick—and perhaps a postseason preview.
There's so much more to get to! Don't miss the video below as we examine the topics above and much, much more!
The MLB season is finally upon us! Join Brandon Strange, Josh Jordan, and Charlie Pallilo for the Stone Cold ‘Stros podcast which drops each Monday afternoon, with an additional episode now on Thursday.
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