I am running the NYC Marathon Nov 2, 2008 to raise money for the Achilles Track Club "Freedom Team."  Visit http://achillestrackclub.org/freedom_team/

The Achilles FREEDOM TEAM of Wounded Veterans introduces recently wounded soldiers from the war in Iraq and Afghanistan to running.  Founded in early 2004 by Achilles VP Mary Bryant, the program provides motivation, training, and the opportunity to rebuild strength and endurance while healing through distance running events. Their rehabilitation is enhanced through physical activity, goal setting, and personal achievement alongside Achilles athletes who are peer mentors.  This integration is important in easing their return to their communities, where rather than being ‘victims' they are now role models.  Their courage and inspiration already helps millions through national, regional, and local media coverage of their challenges and victories.

By sponsoring me, you are helping these wounded veterans.  PLEASE BE GENEROUS AND DONATE.  YOUR DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE.  Thank in advance for your support as we truly appreciate your generocity.

Tim Esler

PS -- find out if your company will provide "matching" donations.  Or just convince your bosses to have your company provide sponsorship. 

Suggested Donations:

Attorney's -- $75 - $700

U/W'ers -- $10 - $200

Reinsurers  / MGA's- $10 - $200

Family -- this will impact your Christmas presents, so be generous.

Quotes from an Achilles FREEDOM TEAM member and his wife

"What people should know when they here the name Achilles Freedom Team.  As a wounded Iraq veteran I was enthusiastically invited to participate in my first handcycling event in June of 2007.  Not being able to run had been an extreme blow to me mentally for I have made most of my living by using my physical prowess; especially spending 12 years the Marine Corps Infantry.  When I first got onto a handcycle and completed my first race during the Hope and Possibilities in Central Park I was overwhelemed with the amount of joy that I had just experienced.  You see I was an avid runner and competitior and getting on that handcycle brought back that spirit of competition and accomplishment that I had not been able to find for over three years because of my injuries.  Since this race I have competed in the Marine Corps Marathon, the Marathon of the Palm Beaches, the Miami Marathon, and will be particpiating in the upcoming Boston Marathon.  What has truly been the most important to me as a Freedom Team member is the relationships that Achilles has built.  I can now walk into a race weekend and embrace every other team memeber as an important member of my family.  If nothing else happened the entire weekend, the fact that we all had time to share our lives with each other for that short period of time has been inspirational to us all and we have all experienced an incredible amount of growth because of it.  We can relate with one another like no one else in our shoes can and this could not have happend with out the tremendous work and vision that Achilles has bestowed upon us.  Go Achilles!!!" 

Christopher D. Ayres
Capt USMC(Ret); ACHILLES FREEDOM TEAM MEMBER “In June of 2007 we made a trip to NY city to meet the Achilles Freedom Team. Since then my husband, retired Captain Chris Ayres, has participated in three marathons. I have been able to meet some amazing people and forge life long friendships with spouses, warriors and team members alike. Had we not been afforded this opportunity we would have never met them. I feel like we are going home when we pack up and head to a race. Each of the team members, along with their families have become a part of our family. I actually miss them when we leave. The volunteers and staff are amazing. They plan, execute, and motivate with the hearts of angels. The best thing about Achilles is they gave my husband his spark back. You see before he was wounded he would run as far and long as he could every day. Seeing him smile on that hand cycle crossing the finish line for the 1st time is something I will NEVER forget. The Achilles Freedom team and those who donate to Achilles are forever in my heart. I have been changed by the individuals who strive to be the best they can be no matter what they have faced in the past. They have inspired me to be a better person. For that I am thankful.”

To close all I can say is GO ACHILLES!!

Sincerely,
Renee' Ayres