Marko Cheseto runs first race on prostheses

After a little practice on the track, former UAA All-American runner Marko Cheseto tested out his carbon fiber running blades May 31 in his first race since losing both feet in 2011. It's been a grueling recovery, but buoyed by cheers from the crowd throughout the 6-K Skinny Mini, Cheseto finished 29th overall with a smile on his face.

A little background. In 2011, Cheseto was battling depression, worsened by the suicide of teammate and close friend William Ritekwiang. One cold, snowy evening he took an overdose of prescription medication and wandered outside. He lost both feet to frostbite. ESPN covered his progress toward recovery in early 2012.

In this new chapter of his life, Cheseto recently completed his undergraduate degree in nutrition and is making plans for graduate school. He's also working his way back as a runner with dreams of competing in the Paralympics.

Less than a month after being outfitted with carbon fiber running blades through the Challenged Athletes Foundation, Cheseto completed his first race-the 6-K Skinny Mini. The Anchorage Daily News covered Cheseto's race and featured a photo gallery from the event.

Cheseto said he ran to show Anchorage supporters he's doing well and plans to be around for a long time.