Medtronic announces Global Heroes running team for 2015

Medtronic has announced that it will once again be supporting a team of runners, the Medtronic Global Heroes, at a marathon event in October.

An international team of 25 runners who benefit from medical technology will run as a team in the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon and Medtronic TC 10 Mile races on October 4th, with participants from six continents and 16 different countries signed up.

Each runner has a medical device to treat conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, spinal disorders, chronic pain or neurological disorders, with runners from countries including the US, UK, China, Japan, France, New Zealand, South Africa and Brazil.

This marks the programme's tenth anniversary, with 234 runners from 34 countries having been honoured since its inception in 2006. Those chosen receive complimentary race entry, air transportation, meals and lodging.

Dr Jacob Gayle, vice-president of Medtronic Philanthropy, said: "Medtronic Global Heroes represent passionate and empowered individuals, who not only proactively manage their own health needs, but encourage, inspire and contribute to the wellbeing of their families, friends and communities."