Renate's Fifth Climb for a Cause

Delta Dental Mount Washington Road Race – June 14, 2025
Fundraising for the Martin Wallem ALS Foundation

Renate is once again taking on the challenge of the iconic Mount Washington Road Race—marking her fifth year running up the mountain’s unforgiving slopes. With every step of the grueling 7.6-mile uphill route, she’s pushing forward for a purpose close to her heart: raising funds for the Martin Wallem ALS Foundation.

Her dedication doesn’t stop in June. Renate will return to Mount Washington this July to participate in our annual hike—doubling her commitment to both the mountain and the mission.

Over the years, Renate’s races have become symbolic of the perseverance and strength we admire and support through our foundation. Scroll down to see a collection of her race bibs and medals, each one representing a story of determination and heart.

Help Renate make this her most meaningful race yet.
Donate here

The Martin Wallem ALS Foundation Sunrise Ascent on Mt. Washington

Sunday, July 27, 2025 · 7.6 Miles · One Incredible Sunrise. One Powerful Cause.

Before the sun rises on July 27th, athletes and their teams will begin a powerful journey—ascending the 7.6-mile Mount Washington Auto Road, determined to reach the 6,288-foot summit of New England’s highest peak.

This inspiring event is more than a hike. It’s a tribute to possibility, community, and courage.

🌄 What is the Sunrise Ascent?

The Sunrise Ascent on Mt. Washington is an empowering annual fundraising event hosted by Adaptive Sports Partners, a nonprofit organization that helps people with disabilities discover new confidence, community, and adventure through sport and recreation.

Each team includes an athlete with a disability and a crew of supporters who help them ascend the mountain—physically, emotionally, and financially. Together, they work toward their Summit Goal Pledge, raising funds to help others experience life-changing outdoor adventures.

🧑‍🦽 It All Started with Martin

This event exists because Martin Wallem dared to ask, “Can I hike Mount Washington again?”

In 2009, now using a wheelchair, Martin partnered with Adaptive Sports Partners of the North Country to make that dream a reality. He became the first and only athlete to complete the Sunrise Ascent that year—and in doing so, he inspired a legacy.

Today, dozens of athletes take part in the Sunrise Ascent every year, each one following in Martin’s tracks, driven by the same spirit of courage and determination.

🙌 Join Us in 2025

The Martin Wallem ALS Foundation is proud to honor Martin’s legacy by supporting this incredible event—and we invite you to be a part of it.

Whether you climb with a team, support from the base, or donate to help athletes reach their Summit Goal Pledge, your presence makes a difference.

📅 Event Date: Sunday, July 27, 2025
📍 Location: Mount Washington Auto Road, Gorham, NH
🎯 Beneficiary: Adaptive Sports Partners
💖 Our Role: Supporting Martin’s legacy and helping others ascend.

🏔️ Support the Climb with us

In 2009, Martin Wallem became the first Sunrise Ascent athlete.
In 2025, his family and foundation will climb in his honor.

Members of the Martin Wallem ALS Foundation will be participating in this year’s event—not just supporting teams financially but physically joining them on the mountain to help make their journey to the summit possible.

We climb in Martin’s memory.
We climb for those still facing ALS.
We climb so everyone has a chance to reach the top.

Donate to a Sunrise Ascent Team or to the Martin Wallem ALS Foundation
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