Dear fellow walkers, I will be competing in the Copa Internacional de
Caminata in San Salvador, El Salvador next Saturday the 10th of
December. This is an international competition for all the Central
American countries, Mexico, and the United States.

I was informed by Philip Dunn who has raced in El Salvdor before, that
the athletes there do not have much in terms of racing and training
shoes, athletic gear, etc. He had the great idea to take some shoes
and clothing to the race. I am taking nine pair of shoes that I have
that I do not use (wrong size, don't work for me for racewalking,
etc...) and clothes to give to their athtletes. I am asking for
anyone here in So Cal or even the rest of the U.S. to look in their
closets and send me your old shoes or clothing (chance to get rid of
old race t-shirts that you never wear anymore) and I will take them to
El Salvador with me. I have been in contact with the President of the
El Salvdoran Federation and told him of my plans. He was very
gladened to hear that American athletes were willing to help their
athletes. I think it would be a good gesture to foster brotherhood
and friendship between our countries especially during this time of
the year.

My address is 6421 Vatcher Drive, Huntington Beach, Ca. 92647 if you
want to send me items, or if you live close enough, MAPQUEST my
address and drop it off at my front door. My number is 714-848-8139
if you need to contact me. I will box everything up and take it with
me on the plane. I leave Thursday, December 8th at midnight from
LAX.

I appreciate every one of you and what you bring to our crazy sport of
racewalking. Hopefully by this small gesture we can make the world a
little bit better place. Thank you in advance!!

peace to all,
Chris Rael