Running Through Barriers: One Veteran's Record-Breaking Tribute to His Support System
Amid the bustle of Hoka’s flagship sportswear store in New York City, time seemed to stand still as Air Force veteran Adam Popp stepped onto a treadmill with another ambitious goal: to shatter multiple Guinness World Records in a grueling 24-hour run.
And shatter them, he did. Over the next 24 hours, Adam would go on to break five different records in Guinness’ above-knee amputation category – from running the fastest marathon to covering the greatest distance in both 12 and 24 hours on a treadmill.
Adam is no stranger to breaking records, but this time, he wanted to tip his cap to the people who helped him reach this moment. Each hour during his run, Adam recognized a different organization, including Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP), to tell the story of the community that lifted him up along the way.
"Running is now the easy part for me," Adam reflected. "The journey to get here has had many ups and downs, and it takes people and organizations like Wounded Warrior Project to help individuals reach their full potential."
Adam’s journey came into focus in 1997 when he joined the Air Force as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal specialist, an expertise that became increasingly crucial after Sept. 11, 2001. He deployed to Iraq in 2004 and then, in 2007, to Afghanistan.
His life changed forever on Dec. 7, 2007, when he was injured in an explosion, resulting in the amputation of his leg above the knee. At Walter Reed Medical Center days later, WWP™ was an integral part of his recovery, he said, providing both material support through care packages and crucial emotional support during his most challenging moments.
A turning point in Adam’s journey came in April 2008 when he participated in his first Soldier Ride®, a WWP event that not only connected him with a network of fellow veterans but ignited a passion for cycling and physical activity that would define his path forward.
Adam Popp is pictured in uniform as a member of the Air Force, in which he served as Explosive Ordnance Disposal specialist. He deployed to Iraq in 2004 and Afghanistan in 2007.
His involvement with WWP expanded to include ski trips and numerous Soldier Rides across the country, including memorable rides starting at the White House in which he met Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama – experiences he describes as “surreal” and motivating.
After leaving the military and the hospital, he worked alongside WWP to lobby Congress for veterans health care improvements, advocating for others facing similar challenges.
“Wounded Warrior Project has been a constant supporter of me for the past 17 years," Adam noted, emphasizing the organization’s role in his journey to becoming a record-breaking athlete.
The records he broke in New York City over 24 hours were nothing short of unbelievable. Pre-approved by Guinness, Adam broke records in numerous categories in the unilateral above-knee amputation classification, including greatest distance runs on a treadmill in 12 and 24 hours (male); fastest 50K and 100K runs on a treadmill (male); and fastest marathon run on a treadmill (male).
Adam will add these records to an awe-inspiring backlog of achievements. He came into the New York City event with eight confirmed world records. These records break down barriers for other veterans, showing that with determination and support, anything is possible, said WWP Adaptive Sports Director Mike Owens, who ran alongside Adam for an hour at the Hoka store.
“Being there alongside Adam during his record attempt was incredibly moving,” Mike said. “His determination isn't just about personal achievement – it's about showing other wounded warriors that their potential is limitless.”
“Each record is a testament to what's possible, no matter the circumstances," Adam added.
The impact of adaptive sports on veterans like Adam cannot be overstated. WWP’s Adaptive Sports program has become a lifeline for many veterans facing significant injuries and health conditions that limit their participation in traditional sports.
WWP’s Warrior Survey* found that nearly 76% of wounded warriors experience moderate to severe pain, and through specifically modified athletic activities, they can gain physical strength and build confidence and camaraderie.
Adam’s journey is one of resilience and transformation and highlights the crucial role of organizations like WWP in veterans’ lives.
“Every step I take is not just for me; it's for everyone who's been on this journey," Adam said.
Find out how you can get involved to help support and empower wounded warriors.
*Warrior Survey, Wave 2 (conducted June 15-Aug. 24, 2022)
Contact: Julian Routh, Public Relations, jrouth@woundedwarriorproject.org, 904.544.0195
About Wounded Warrior Project
Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers — helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more about Wounded Warrior Project.
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