Alberta’s Chris Koch was born without hands or legs – but it hasn’t slowed him down yet. Determination has taken him throughout school halls of Alberta – and places much farther – while sharing his story. But now he has a special request for an upcoming American race.
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He’s climbed the Calgary Tower, appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Network, and helps with the family farm during his down time.
But now, it’s his trusty longboard that has become a concern.
Even though Koch has used his longboard to get around in a dozen different countries, he says officials with the Los Angeles Marathon won’t let him use it during the race. He said they told him it’s a safety risk for Koch along with other participants.
“This is not an accessory; this is a necessity.”
Koch and his girlfriend, Ally, were hoping to participate in the race on Valentine’s Day.
Koch started an online petition asking to be allowed to participate with his “mobility device.” It had garnered more than 800 signatures as of Tuesday afternoon. The couple said even if they can’t participate in the L.A. Marathon, they’ll be pounding the pavement somewhere on Feb. 14.
The L.A. Marathon said the safety of participants is its first priority in a statement sent Wednesday morning.
“We have thoughtfully established rules in line with other large marathons that do not permit skateboards on the marathon course,” said the statement.
“We find Chris inspiring and wish him the best in his athletic endeavors.”
Editor’s note: This story was initially published Jan. 12, and was updated Jan. 13 with a statement from the L.A. Marathon.
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