Fueling the Finish Line: Cordani Family Grant Propels Las Vegas Athlete Toward Dream Race at Badwater 135

When 42-year-old Terri Rupp from Las Vegas, NV got lost during her very first 5K, she never imagined she'd one day be training for a 100-mile ultramarathon. Born with optic nerve atrophy, Terri grew up with limited vision and often felt out of place as a blind athlete. But everything changed when she founded Achilles International’s Las Vegas chapter. Since then, she has not only been able to embrace her identity as a blind person, but Terri has also become a fierce competitor, participating in numerous races each year, including half marathons, full marathons, and her favorite challenge: at least one grueling 100-mile event every year. 

Terri’s ultimate goal is to compete in the Badwater 135, a 135-mile ultramarathon through California’s Death Valley, one of the toughest foot races in the world. To qualify, she must first complete at least four 100-mile races. Thanks to support from the Cordani Family Grant Program, Terri is one step closer to that dream, beginning with the Pony Express Trail 100 in western Utah. 

Read more about Terri’s journey and how the support of the Cordani Family Grant Program is bringing her one step closer to her dream. 

What inspired you to take on the Pony Express 100?

“This race will be my very first non-short loop ultra, so it will be a little different but I’m excited! I’m a bit of a history buff, so I love the idea of being able to run on such a historic course. It’s also the closest thing to trail running I’ll get. The race itself is a really great setup for a blind athlete because every runner needs to have their crew leapfrogging them throughout the course. This will be a great opportunity to work with my team and get our system down before we actually have the opportunity to compete in the Badwater 135.” 

Why did you decide to apply for the Cordani Family Grant?

“This grant is such a great opportunity to help get my guides to the race. People don’t always realize it, but having support with guide coordination makes a huge difference. I have a connection with Achilles Utah, which is amazing, but being able to bring my local guides is especially important to me. We’ve trained together, built trust, and shared so many experiences. Having them with me takes a lot of the stress off, especially with a crew of six to eight people.”

What does receiving this grant mean to you? 

“I’m incredibly honored to receive this grant. Athletes with disabilities face so many barriers, and financial challenges are a big part of that. Even reducing that burden just a little can open doors that once felt out of reach. Grants like this create real opportunities and make a world of difference.”

What advice do you have for other people living with a disability looking to chase success and go after their dreams? 

“If you want something, don’t just want it. Go after it! Don’t wait until you’re in better shape or faster. Just start. Everyone starts somewhere. There’s always a way, and there’s always support available. Others have done it, and there are people out there ready to help you figure it out, too. Something I’ve learned that I think that really resonates in our community is this: it doesn’t matter how fast or how far you go, what matters is how much fun you’re having and who you’re sharing it with.”

Applications for Travel Race Grants through the Cordani Family Grant Program are open to U.S. based athletes now through August 18.