Community Corner

Great Shakes: McRunner Sets Unofficial Guinness World Record

Joe D'Amico, an Oak Forest native now living in Palatine, ran the LA Marathon and was able to best the previous record for fastest time while dressed as a dairy product. His time is still waiting to be confirmed by Guinness.

Joe D'Amico, aka, McRunner, , has (unofficially) beaten the former Guinness World Record for the fastest time while dressed as a dairy product (male).

D'Amico finished the marathon in 3:10, beating the former record of 3:37. He came in 277th place among all runners, and his time qualified him to run in the Boston Marathon, he said. Britain's David Smith was the previous record-holder, setting it in 2011.

READ: Oak Forest 'McRunner' Sets New Challenge: Break Guinness World Record

Find out what's happening in Oak Forestwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

And during the 30 days leading up to the marathon, D'Amico was on a strict, only McDonald's diet, including a Shamrock Shake a day.

The new record is unofficial, because D'Amico said Guinness World Records still has a ratification process to complete before he officially can become the new record-setter.

Find out what's happening in Oak Forestwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Oak Forest native and Palatine resident also was able to raise $5,100 that he will donate to Ronald McDonald House, topping his goal of $5,000.

"Overall I feel terrific, I’m so happy to get the record and the fundraising goal, I’ll be sore for a few days but it’s totally worth it," D'Amico said.

READ:

This wasn't the first time D'Amico used this unique training regiment to run the LA Marathon. In 2011, he set a personal best time and came in 28thplace after training on a strict McDonald’s diet. D’Amico raised $40,000 for Ronald McDonald House.

The 2013 marathon began at Dodger's Stadium, and wound through Hollywood and a number of iconic areas in southern California, before ending up in Santa Monica.

"The weather was beautiful and the scene so picturesque, there were tons of spectators who were very encouraging; the costume was so much fun, people were totally into it," D'Amico said.

READ: Oak Forest Native and Marathoner Training on McDonald's Diet

Now D'Amico, his wife and daughter are enjoying a much-needed break by vacationing in Disneyland to celebrate his victory.

D'Amico is still working to garner more donations for Ronald McDonald House. If you are interested in getting involved, visit his McRunner Facebook page.

 

Two Ways to Stay Connected to Oak Forest Patch:


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here