NEW YORK, NY — Despite high humidity and temperatures exceeding 90 degrees, runners and walkers took part in the 22nd annual Achilles Hope & Possibility 4M, held in Manhattan’s Central Park on June 23 to support participation for people with disabilities.
The New York Road Runner race, presented by TD Bank, takes place in advance of Disability Pride Month in July and the anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Founded in 1983 by Dick Traum, the first athlete to complete the 26.2-mile New York City Marathon as an above-knee amputee in 1976, Achilles International is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to support youth and adult athletes with disabilities and encourage their participation in adaptive running and endurance sports.
More than 5,500 participants ran or walked nearly the entire length of Central Park’s trails, many on foot, some in wheelchairs, some on hand cycles and some with prosthetic limbs.
Dozens of NYRR volunteers in bright yellow shirts served as guides for both adult and child participants throughout the four-mile race.
Some celebrities, like comedian Jon Stewart and Giants running back Tiki Barber, who is in his fifth year with Achilles, served as guides and hands-on guides for the athletes who requested help, but the real stars were the participants, who have been overcoming obstacles for most of their lives.
“I’m a cancer survivor,” said Alan Kaufman, an Achilles athlete and cancer survivor who spoke to PIX 11. “In 2017, I was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic melanoma that had spread to my lungs and brain.” Kaufman was given six months to live.
“I joined Achilles at six months and got through what I call my expiration date, and I’m still alive and well,” he said, attributing his survival to the group.
To donate to Achilles International, click here.
A selection of 8K participants in the 2024 Achilles Hope & Possibility 4M race line up to start the race in Manhattan’s Central Park on June 23. Since 1983, Achilles International has been helping youth, adults and veterans living with disabilities participate in adaptive running and endurance sports. The race ties into Disability Pride Month in July. (Dr. Gracelyn Santos/Staten Island Advance)
Achilles International and Achilles NYC Metro
Working in 18 countries, including the United States, Achilles International is committed to removing barriers at the starting line of the race and empowering the disability community to cross the finish line. Achilles International has transformed the lives of people with disabilities through sports programs and social connections.
Founded in 1983, more than 150,000 athletes of all ages and ability levels, including wounded military members and veterans, have participated in endurance competitions. A program called Achilles Kids provides training, racing opportunities and in-school programs for children with disabilities.
According to the company’s website, 26% of Americans live with a disability. Nearly half of people living with a disability do not engage in aerobic exercise and are also more likely to have at least one chronic illness.
New York City and Staten Island Programming
Achilles goes beyond running events, with bike rides, swims and the TriAchilles team providing hope, inspiration and the joy of achievement.
Specialized training for children with disabilities in New York City is offered through Achilles Kids programs in Central Park, Prospect Park and Flushing Meadows Park, with adaptive cycling sessions also offered in select parks.
On Staten Island, the run/walk will take place every Saturday at 9 a.m. with pick-up from StoneHenge Staten Island Parks and Recreation Department, 1150 Clove Road. For more information, contact [email protected].
A selection of 8K participants in the 2024 Achilles Hope & Possibility 4M race line up to start the race on June 23 in Manhattan’s Central Park. Since 1983, Achilles International has been helping youth, adults and veterans living with disabilities participate in adaptive running and endurance sports. The race ties into Disability Pride Month in July. (Dr. Gracelyn Santos/Staten Island Advance)
Source link