'Speed for Need' initiative pushes three kids with disabilities, veteran at Charlotte Marathon

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — More than 6,000 runners hit the pavement Saturday for the annual Charlotte Marathon.

For those who didn’t run the 26.2-mile course, others were able to run a half-marathon, a 5K or relay race.

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At the starting line, members of “Speed for Need” initiative pushed three kids with disabilities, and one veteran, for the entire race in custom racing chariots.

"The mission of our group really is to empower disabled athletes who otherwise wouldn't be able to participate in these types of events,” said Rick Gambs with Speed for Need.

"It's pretty awesome to see kids have that experience to be able to go across the finish line,” said Jared Mobley from Speed for Need. “It's something that's totally off the radar that they thought they could never do."

World War II veteran Gene Blackmon was honored to participate on Veterans Day as he bundled up and hopped in the chariot. The man behind the chariot, Rob Cannon, said he was honored to run with Gene, a fellow Navy veteran.

"Veterans share a fraternity that spans generations,” Cannon said.

"I think it's a great thing in the world to help someone else,” Blackmon said.

Months ago, volunteers raised about $30,000 for four chariots through the Speed for Need initiative.

Cox Media Group