Having run close to 40 marathons, things were getting a bit stale. Being able to participate as a guide absolutely reinvigorated my passion to run.  I am now able to enjoy the sport I love more than ever, while making it possible for a visually impaired athlete to do the same. WIN-WIN.

“Guiding a Visually Impaired athlete is my way of giving back to the sport(s) that I have received so much joy from participating in. As an Endurance athlete, the different disciplines that we participate are done selfishly; you train and compete by yourself. As a Guide, you are able to give back to the sport(s) by giving those with vision loss a chance to do what brings us so much joy, and that we sometimes take for granted. After my first guiding experience, I went home and told my wife that I am completely OK not ever doing another marathon by myself. However, I will do whatever I can to make sure that I participate year in and year out as a guide for visually impaired runners!”

“Running guides have made a huge impact in my life. Not only do they generously donate their time and effort to assist me at any event, but they also pace me and motivate me to compete at a high level.”

Since going blind, I've looked for a way to push myself physically while staying safe. About a half-mile into my first run with a guide I knew I'd found it! I've gained speed an endurance like anyone who has trained, but more importantly, I've found a greater confidence in and respect for myself.

“Guides have given me the opportunity to fulfill my passion of running, for without their kindness there would be no running. They have also provided me with encouragement, motivation, and inspiration to push myself beyond what I thought I could do, and without those guides, I would never have had the opportunity to run a great marathon like Boston!”