“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!”

Without a guide, I could only run slowly and cautiously. I could not keep up with other runners. With a guide, I can run a faster pace. I can join group runs and run competitively in races. I can challenge my athletic ability. This opens up a new world of possibilities!

“The impact and difference volunteer sighted guides have made in my life allow me to enjoy the freedom to train and run outdoors, participate in events, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. From each experience, a unique friendship forms, reminding me that the possibilities ahead are endless, as long as I take that first step forward!”

“Every day of my running life, I thank my many running guides. Without them, my running would be a solitary slog on a treadmill. With them, running is a chance to make new friends, to race, to be a part of a great community, and to laugh, cry, and learn about people I would never have met without sport. In short, because of my guides, running brings joy and freedom.”

“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!”