LANSDALE, PA (May 1, 2002) - James Borden, 53, of Schaghticoke, NY, will be inducted into State University of New York at New Paltz “Hawks” Hall of Fame. In 1970, Borden was able to overcome a rare genetic skin disease that prevented him from sweating, and ran the 1-mile and 2-mile races for the university. Borden will be recognized for his athletic accomplishments at New Paltz’s Induction Dinner and Ceremony on Saturday, May 4.

More than thirty years ago, Borden’s track coach, Joe Owens, and his teammates formed the “bucket brigade” and doused the athlete with buckets of water as he ran his races. The water enabled Borden to keep his body cool, which allowed him to compete in the sport where he excelled. Borden broke the school’s record in the 2-mile event.

Borden is affected with ichthyosis, a rare genetic skin condition characterized by dry, cracked, scaling and thickened skin. Individuals with this disease commonly have the inability to sweat because their skin is so thick. Water cannot break through to the outside layer to cool the body.

Borden and Coach Owens received national recognition when Newsweek Magazine featured a story about this creative way to overcome his medical obstacle and pursue a dream. Because of this national recognition, many other individuals who were affected with ichthyosis contacted Borden. These individuals, ultimately, became the founding members of the Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types. The Foundation is the only organization in the country dedicated to helping individuals and families affected by this rare disease. After graduation from New Paltz, Borden became a successful dairy and fruit farmer and married. Borden and his wife, Linda, have two children, Christopher and Patrick. Borden has served as a Cub Scout Leader, Boy Scout Leader, volunteer fireman, and a participant on the Youth Commission for his area. Borden is currently in his sixteenth year as councilman for the town of Easton, Washington County, NY.