Marathoner Challenges World Record to Raise Funds for CF Foundation

Blisters aside, Kalyn looks back on her record-breaking runs with fondness and pride. “The best part of running for the CF cause was meeting new people who came out to cheer me on.”

Going the Distance

Inspired by a close childhood friend with CF, the accomplished marathoner and State University of New York medical student began using her races to spread awareness of the disease several years ago, running a total of 700 miles through all 88 counties of her home state, Ohio.

When a friend mentioned a standing world record for marathons run in consecutive days, Kalyn took to the pavement to challenge the record and to fight CF once again. 

On June 9, with the support of the CF Foundation’s Central Ohio Chapter, Kalyn ran her first of 11 marathons—99 laps each day in lane five—on a high school track near Columbus, Ohio.

Guinness World Records challenge guidelines required having two witnesses at all times, timing the races, and capturing parts of the races on film, in photos and in local media coverage.

Crossing the Finish Line

From toddlers to grandparents, an excited crowd gathered each day to cheer Kalyn on, donate money, share their inspirational stories and even run a lap with her.

One visitor in particular, a 42-year-old woman with CF whom Kalyn met several years ago at her previous fundraiser, gave her the extra boost she needed to finish the final race.

“She came the last day, even though she was waiting for a double lung transplant, and ran the very last lap with me,” Kalyn says about her friend. “Her courage and outlook on life always inspires me. Having her there was amazing—that was a great moment.”

Kalyn has submitted evidence of her achievement to Guinness World Records and is currently awaiting official confirmation of her new world record.