Veteran Runner Sets Sights for Fourth UltraMarathon
Endurance Test Encourages Donations for Mourning Star Center

Victorville, CA – The world’s toughest foot race kicks off on Monday, July 16 at the start line in Badwater, Death Valley, the lowest elevation in the Western Hemisphere at 280’ (85m) below sea level. Victor Valley’s Cheryl Zwarkowski has run this extreme race three times and is going for her fourth Badwater 135 finish. By invitation-only and one of 18 females from a roster of 98, Mrs. Zwarkowski aims to run a total of 438 miles. She will start 135-mile course through Death Valley, summit Mount Whitney, run the course in reverse, then forward, again, and subsequently summit Mount Whitney, the highest point in the congruous United States, for a second time. Despite the blistering heat and competition, Mrs. Zwarkowski is confident. Her goals are set: to run, in runner’s terms, a Badwater Double with the ultimate goal of running a Badwater Triple. Not bad for a 54 year old runner!

“I started training in 2000 when I was 42 years old. Within a couple of months, I ran a 10K. Running has come naturally and been a fabulous outlet for me” comments Mrs. Zwarkowski. As she was putting her race plan together, Mrs. Zwarkowski connected with Mourning Star, a grief and bereavement support program for children and teens. “I lost my dad earlier this year and know how hard the loss of a parent can be. I can’t imagine going through this type of grief as a child. The work that Mourning Star does can have a profound effect on the future of a child. I am so thrilled to be able to be able to honor my dad by dedicating my race to him and help raise funds for Mourning Star” she continued.

Mourning Star, in turn, has embraced Mrs. Zwarkowski’s goal and is supporting her fund-raising goals. “We are delighted to have been chosen as Cheryl’s charity of choice and are rallying support behind her” commented Sheryl Sullivan, local Program Coordinator for Mourning Star. They have created custom tee shirts showcasing Mrs. Zwarkowski’s race and her cause. Those who donate $35 or more will be given a tee shirt so they can join the ultra-marathon runner’s cheerleaders and supporters.

To make a donation or check on Mrs. Zwarkowski’s progress, go to www.CherylZwarkowski.com or connect on Facebook.

About Mourning Star Centers
Dedicated to providing gentle and loving support to children and teens that are experiencing grief, Mourning Star Centers provide a supportive and safe environment that facilitates the process of healing. Each summer, the Centers staff Camp Erin, an annual grief camp that allows for sharing, learning new coping skills, and having fun. Mourning Star Centers are one of the many community outreach programs provided by the Visiting Nurse Association of the Inland Counties. Activities of the Centers are supported solely by the community from generous individuals, organizations and businesses, and through grants. For more information about Mourning Star Centers or Camp Erin, please contact: www.MourningStar.org or 760.948.7249.