July 23, 2024
Selfless Crew in Badwater 135: A Tribute to My Team
"Have fun and keep smiling! Remember, you chose to be here!" - Badwater 135 Race Rules
Running 135 miles through the blazing heat of Death Valley is a feat that few dare to tackle alone. The Badwater 135 Ultramarathon is not just an individual achievement—it's a team sport. My successes in this race were made possible by a selfless crew, friends who chose to sacrifice their time, energy, and comfort to see me cross the finish line. Badwater is, above all, a collective effort.
At Badwater, each runner can bring up to four crew members and one support vehicle. The crew provides food, water, medical supplies, and emotional support at intervals throughout the race, often leapfrogging me every few miles based on the grueling conditions. From handing me fresh water bottles, to spraying me down with cold water, folding my chair, and even bringing me a fresh pair of socks, they are by my side the whole way, ready to do whatever it takes. Their dedication is what truly makes the race possible.
The crew works around the clock, laboring tirelessly to keep me hydrated and fueled, even taking turns to drive the van in the relentless desert heat. This journey through 135 miles of harsh terrain requires intense focus and drive—not only from the runner but from the entire team. I’ve had the honor of persuading some of the best people I know to be part of my crew, and I’m deeply grateful for their selflessness. Let me introduce my incredible Badwater 135 team, who have stood by me over the years.
The Badwater 135 Crew
4-Time Crew Member
Robert Rizon
3-Time Crew Members
Tess Leono
Eric Doulder
2-Time Crew Members
Kat Bermudez
Glen Tabios
Luis Miguel Callao
Rona Lipke
Peachy Poso
Steve Gerschultz
1-Time Crew Members
Ibar Dinampo
Perry Dazo
Conrado Bermudez
Timmy Zhou
Sharon Rauceo
Additional Support: Lone Pine to Mt. Whitney Leg
Raul Vidal
Ibar Dinampo
Glen Tabios
Special Thanks to My Greatest Support
And last but certainly not least, I have to thank my best friend, my soulmate, and my wife, Donna. She is my greatest supporter, my rock, and the one who believes in me even when I struggle to believe in myself. Her unwavering faith and love lift me through the hardest moments.
Few things are more selfless than helping someone else achieve their goals. To be on a Badwater crew is to give an invaluable gift—a commitment to someone else’s dreams. Thank you to my team for your dedication and selflessness. You are my heroes, and my Badwater finish is a testament to your hard work.