Address:
Los Lunas, New Mexico
Type Of Business:
Nonprofit Organization
Expertise:
Mr. Castaneda's area of expertise is in fitness coaching.
Major Product/SVS:
Health and Fitness Education, Enrichment Projects for Children, Youths and Families
Hobbies/Sports:
Walking, Photography, Writing, Gardening
Education Degrees:
Coursework in Sports Management and International Sports (1998); Master of Latin American Affairs and Mexican History, Jaime Balmes University, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico (1970); Bachelor of Science Degree, The University of New Mexico (1965)
Affiliations Awards:
Book Author, For The Love Of El Fútbol Soccer (1998); Poetry Book Author, Steps of Thy Love (1973); Optimist Club, Taos, New Mexico; Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association
Place of Birth:
Nuevo Casas Grandes
Industry:
Health and Fitness Education
Country of Origin:
Chihuahua/Mexico
Children's Names:
Elena, Rosa, Carlos, Katiana, David
Date of Distinction:
6/23/2008
Work History:
Sports Coordinator, Youth Development Incorporated; Independent Founder, Youth Soccer League (1979-1984); Motivational Speaker, Site Director, Olympic Experience National Program (1980-1981); Director, Physical Fitness and Health Program, State of New Mexico (1978-1979); Coach, Teacher, Albuquerque Academy (1967-1978); Instructor, Peace Corps (1965-1967); Teacher, Coach, Latin American Peace Corps Training Center (1963-1966); Coach, Teacher, Martinez Town House of Neighborly Services, Albuquerque, NM (1958-1964)
Career Achievements:
Founder, Youth Soccer, NM; Soccer Dribblethon, 700 Miles (1988); Soccer Dribblethon, 1,114 Miles (1994); Creator, Organizer, First New Mexico Soccer League, Albuquerque, NM (1972-1979); Holder of Two Official Records, Guinness Book of World Records (1974, 1976); International Soccer Outreach, Mexico
What do you feel separates you from the rest of the professionals in your industry?:
I am creative, innovative and filled with the spirit of adventure, discovery and positive motivation. I dream big and I proceed to realize my goals and dreams in life. Every day I am challenged to learn, share and live with honor, truth and dignity. Each day, I strive to be the best and most positive role model to our youths and families, motivating them to live healthy, creative and rewarding lives. I have the spark of life and creativity and have been blessed by God by having excellent health. Verily, I am alive, creative and rich in experience and knowledge.
What has been the most outstanding thing you have done thus far in your career?:
Being the torch bearer for the Olympic games in 1996. Holding two Guinness Book of World Record walking achievements. Walking across the USA in 1982.
Expanded Biography:
I love life, it has given me many rewarding experiences, adventures and discoveries. My energy is limitless and builds constantly from the creative challenges of writing, photography, hiking, participating in soccer youth league development and an international outreach program to promote fitness, good will and peace. In 1982, I walked across the USA from New York City to Venice Beach, California. Starting on August 9th and finishing on December 11th, it was a tremendous walking journey, totaling 3,198 miles across 13 states. I leaned to appreciate life and gift of true friendship. Without the lessons I learned in determination, desire, dedication and discipline, I could not have completed my journey, for it tested me physically, mentally ans spiritually. My motto is the very same as César Chávez, 'Si Se Puede! It can be done! Planting the seeds of wellness provides me with a daily challenge to encourage positive human development. I see tragedies, despair, drug abuse and desperation rob us, our families and our communities of our positive values. But, I also see hope, the light of awakening and the realization to necessitate the means for our children to achieve their goals and dreams.
Highlight of career?:
The highlight of his career was carrying the torch at the 1996 Olympic Games.
Charity:
Sponsor, Christian Children's Fund; Philippines Christian Mission; United Way of New Mexico
Number Of Years In Profession:
53
Number Of Years In Current Position:
25
How Did They Get Involved In Profession:
He became involved in his profession because he wanted to educate his community on health and fitness.
Extended Bio Profile:
Mr. Castañeda has written an autobiography. After being in an automobile accident at the age of 18 and being paralyzed from the waist down, he proved the doctors wrong after they told him that we would never walk again. He was featured in Sports Illustrated in March, 1984. He achieved a place in the Guinness Book of World Records in 1976 for walking 142 miles. He also broke a world record in the nonstop walk event in 1973. Mr. Castañeda walked 302 miles in less than 102.59 hours and was featured in the 1974 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records. Mr. Castañeda has completed a variety of 50 and 100-mile walks on the west coast, including high altitude and non-stop walking events.
In 1998, he wrote three country songs entitles 'Light the Candle of Your Dreams, 'Country Music in My Heart and Soul,' and 'Silver Wings and Golden Halo.' The songs were given to LeAnn Rimes.
Day to Day Responsibilities:
Motivating People, Promoting Health and Wellness, Traveling, Defending his Record in the Guinness Book of World Records, Writing Articles
Education Certifications:
Media Workshop and Training (1998); First Aid Training (1997); Certification in Soccer Coaching and Training (1996)
Awards/Honors:
National Soccer Start Committee, United States Youth Soccer Association (1999-2000); Article Feature, 'Follow Your Dreams,' National Vista Magazine (1998); Creator, International Plaque of Goodwill and Unity (1998); Torch Bearer, Olympic Games (1996); SGMA National Sports Award (1995); Resolution and Proclamation, City of Los Angeles, CA (1994); Topham Cup Award, London, England (1974); Chaaka Honorary Society; Blue Key Honorary Society