Chilean Miner Finishes NYC Marathon

What a triumph for all the rescued Chilean miners.   

Edison Pena hobbled his way over the finish line in Central Park at 3.30pm, five hours and 50 minutes after beginning the race in Staten Island.

The 34 year-old, who was the 12th man to be raised to the surface in the Phoenix rescue capsule from deep below the Atacama Desert last month, had been dubbed "the runner" for his gruelling subterranean exercise regime.

He was invited to participate in the challenge through the streets of Manhattan by organisers who were inspired by his drive and stamina.

Mr Pena said before the race that his goal was to complete the 26.2 mile course within six hours but would have to overcome a knee injury incurred during the 10 weeks trapped underground.

"I could have come just to watch, but I decided to take part, to feel the emotion," he said ahead of Sunday's race.

Edison Pena on 'Letterman'

This continues to be a great story.  

Edison Pena, one of the trapped Chilean miners was on "The Late Show" with David Letterman Thursday night.

Letterman, who was really into this interview asked Pena what it was like to be a miner.

"The first time I went into a mine, I wanted to turn around and get out," Pena said through a translator. "That wasn't really an option."

Letterman informed him, "a lot of people feel the same way about appearing on this show."

Pena spoke about the difficulties of using the bathroom while trapped, whether he will run the New York City Marathon, and even does a decent Elvis impression.

Rescued Chilean Miner to run NYC Marathon

While trapped in the mine in Chile he tried to stay in shape by jogging in the tunnels and running sprints in place.  This weekend, the whole world will be watching the New York City Marathon, not to see who wins, but to chear on one of the Chilean miners who plans to compete.

Edison Peña, miner #12 who was recently rescued in Chile was invited by NYC Marathon officials to watch the race after hearing his story when the 33 miners were rescued last month.

Marathon organizers had in mind that he could ride in the lead vehicle or hold the finish line tape, but never expected the Chilean consulate to tell them that Peña wants to run the 26.2-mile marathon.

Peña, nicknamed "El Deportista," is a dedicated and decorated triathlete. 

In an effort to maintain his physical condition while distracting his mind from dwelling on the terrifying situation and prospect of never seeing his family again, Peña began running through the tunnels of the gold and copper mine. He logged between three and six miles per day.

It has been reported that he requested and received an iPod uploaded with Elvis Pressley music to listen to on those runs. MSNBC has indicated Pena and a family member will be invited to visit Graceland in Memphos as well.

New York Road Runners spokesman Richard Finn said attempts to make contact with Peña and officials at the Chilean consulate are ongoing.

Let's hope organizers can make this happen.