Driver Don Wickstrum Perseveres in the Race of His Life in New Mini-Documentary, ‘Chasing Hope’
Film Shares Heartwarming Story: From Cancer Diagnosis to Accomplishing Childhood Dream of Racing to the Top of Pikes Peak
PLANO, Texas, November 16, 2022 — Global storytelling organization I Am Second has released an exclusive short documentary that gives viewers an intimate look at entrepreneur, pastor and racer, Don Wickstrum’s years-long journey to conquer the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb amid doubts, crashes and an aggressive cancer diagnosis. With uplifting messages of perseverance and pursuing your passion, “Chasing Hope” releases just in time for families and friends to watch it together during the holiday season.
“This story is for anyone who has a childhood dream,” said John Humphrey, Vice President of I Am Second. “We knew Don for several years before his diagnosis, and when we saw what he was trying to do at Pikes Peak, we jumped at the chance to share his story with a larger audience. We paired historical footage, interviews and race footage to bring his story to life and make it relatable to everyone.”
Wickstrum grew up in a household that experienced significant hardship, yet he held tightly to his childhood dream of racing Pikes Peak. He made a deal with his father to first go to college, where Wickstrum pursued a career in engineering and started what would become one of the largest robotic integrators in the country. Despite finding success, he did not feel a sense of purpose. In late 2018, everything changed when he was diagnosed with colon cancer, forcing him to sell his business and evaluate the future.
“When you’re set with a date your life could expire, you know, you’re living on borrowed time,” said Wickstrum. “Everything gets a sense of urgency and yet, so many things don’t seem important.”
Refusing to let his battle with cancer steal his hope and determination, the Fastest Pastor, as he is affectionately known by fans, made it his goal to live life to the fullest, continuing to serve in his church, care for his family and train for Pike’s Peak. His race to the finish line would be a multi-year journey, primarily driven by perseverance and faith.
The second-oldest motorsports race in America, the Pikes Peak race has no equal. Boasting 156 turns over a 12.42-mile course, beginning at over 9,300 feet and ending at 14,115 feet above sea level, the harrowing course has long served as a driver’s proving ground. Conquering the climb has been a dream of Wickstrum’s since he first saw the race on TV at eight years old.
“I remember watching Bobby Unser on Pike’s Peak and being mesmerized by the cliff and the turns and how dangerous it was, but also how beautiful it was,” recalls Wickstrum. “I remember saying to my cousin, ‘I’m going to do that.’”
To watch the exclusive I Am Second film, visit iamsecond.com/film/chasing-hope/.
About I Am Second
I Am Second is a nonprofit launched in 2008 that ignites hope and inspires people to live for God and for others. Its website, iamsecond.com, features written and film-based stories of more than 150 athletes, actors, models, musicians, cultural influencers and everyday people who have stepped in front of the camera and declared, “I Am Second.” For information, visit iamsecond.com.
About Don Wickstrum
Entrepreneur, pastor and racer Don Wickstrum, known as the “Fastest Pastor,” serves as a leader in ministry, a counselor, mentor, husband and father. He currently races and share hope amid his ongoing battle with cancer in hopes of inspiring and ministering to others. To learn more about Don’s story, visit fastestpastor.com. Follow Wickstrum and his journey on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Media Contact:
Julie Shutley
julie@alarryross.com
972-267-1111
