FREDERICK, MD (October 22, 2008) - Crossing the finish line of a marathon takes determination, endurance, strength, and sometimes the right chair – well for a wheelchair athlete that is. David Swope, a hand wheelchair athlete from New Windsor, Maryland, knows that having the right racing chair can make all the difference. In 2005, GTI Federal’s sponsorship afforded Dave the opportunity to race in a new, more efficient, and streamlined racing wheelchair. With his new wheels he was able to compete on a higher level. That year with the new chair, a lot of training, and hard work, he went on to place second in the wheelchair division of the Marine Corps Marathon.

Three years and 25 races later, he has realized racing is his favorite hobby and constant challenge. He trains several days a week and longer sessions on weekends. On Sunday, October 26th he will take on the Marine Corps Marathon once again. This time he has challenged himself to finish the race in less than 2 hours. To achieve this goal he must shave off 9 minutes or 35 seconds each mile; something which is a lot easier said than done.

GTI is very proud of Dave and we continue to support him with this endeavor; in fact GTI employees will be at this year’s Marine Corps Marathon helping support Operation Homefront and cheering on David Swope to hopefully see him reach his goal.