DUBLIN - March 29, 2016 - Applications are now open for the 2016 Global Heroes running team. Every October since 2006, the Medtronic Foundation and Twin Cities In Motion have brought people from around the world to Minnesota to be part of a unique collection of long-distance runners, all benefitting from medical technology. As a team, they run the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon or Medtronic TC 10 Mile.

In 10 years, 234 runners representing 34 different countries and a wide range of medical conditions have run the beautiful courses that wind through the lakes and neighborhoods of Minneapolis and St. Paul. They also represent a return to an active life and the importance of access to quality healthcare. They are part of a growing movement that puts patients at the center of efforts to improve healthcare. 

Selected Global Hero runners must have a medical device, therapy or procedure to treat heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, chronic pain, spinal or neurological disorders, obesity and gastrointestinal and urological disorders. There is no restriction on manufacturer of these therapies or procedures. 

"Each Global Hero who crosses that finish line represents those who have been given an opportunity to live an active life," says Jacob Gayle, vice president of the Medtronic Foundation. "As we honor them, we also give them a platform to reach others living with similar medical conditions and circumstances. By sharing their remarkable stories with the world, we hope to educate, inspire and encourage people to take action with their own health."

"The program has grown to be a unique experience in the world of distance running," says Virginia Brophy Achman, executive director, Twin Cities In Motion, organizers of the race events. "From the moment the Global Heroes are greeted at the airport, to crossing the finish line with thousands of cheering spectators, these inspiring runners will have an event weekend like no other in our sport."

"It was amazing to be part of the Global Heroes family," said Delphine Arduini, a 2015 Global Hero with type 1 diabetes from Saint Restitut, France. "Being able to share experiences with people who deal with different medical conditions on a daily basis gives you the inspiration to go further."

The 2016 Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon weekend will take place October 7-9, 2016. Applications and full information for the 2016 Global Hero team are available at medtronic.com/globalheroes. The application deadline is May 6, 2016.

Up to 25 people will be selected for the 2016 Global Heroes team by a committee of Twin Cities In Motion. Certain conditions may apply and applicants must certify that they have discussed race participation with their physician. 

Selected runners will receive a paid entry for themselves and a guest to the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon or the Medtronic TC 10 Mile and a travel package that includes airfare, accommodations and a host of VIP events for the Global Hero and a guest.

About Twin Cities In Motion
Twin Cities In Motion organizes the region's premier running events, including the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon, a Top 10 U.S. Marathon. With a mission of promoting healthy lifestyles through running events and community outreach, TCM contributes a portion of every race dollar to local youth and professional athletes and helps raise more than $950,000 annually with its charity partners. Visit tcmevents.org for more information.

About Medtronic and Medtronic Foundation
Medtronic plc (www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is among the world's largest medical technology, services and solutions companies - alleviating pain, restoring health and extending life for millions of people around the world. The Medtronic Foundation focuses on supporting health and health access initiatives in communities where Medtronic employees live and give.

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Contacts:
Rich Fischer
Public Relations
+1-763-505-2975