Team Achilles Kids Shine in Fall Races
Team Achilles Kids had a busy fall of PRs, dance parties and virtual miles. When 16 year-old Kieron couldn’t make the in-person Hope & Possibility® 4M in New York this summer, he was determined to create his own version of the race. One chilly November Friday evening after school, he completed a sub 2-hour half marathon, running loops of the Central Park course with his guide Alexis and members of the Achilles team cheering him on. Kieron even got medals, including one for his guide, as a way to celebrate their race.
“I know I still have a long ways to go, but running has helped me with setting goals and achieving them incrementally,” says Kieron, who averaged an 8:39 pace.
Fall Achilles New York Rundown
John Kaminsky was awarded the Steven R. Fastenberg Award for Outstanding Achilles Kid at our TCS NYC Marathon weekend dinner.
“Achilles recognizes that everyone has the ability to succeed. My son may have to work longer to be able to compete at running than people without disabilities, but we discovered that he can, and because of Achilles, he does and he wants to! We are truly blessed to have Achilles in our lives,” says Pam, John’s mom.
In addition to New York Road Runners’ races such as the New Balance Fifth Avenue Mile and Abbott Dash to the Finish Line 5K, Team Achilles Kids participated in the Terry Fox Run and the UAE 5K by NYCRuns in Brooklyn.
“Julian is a sweet and patient young man who struggles with language and communication. Running with the Team Achilles Kids Program in Brooklyn has given him a stress free activity to look forward to each week. When he runs with Achilles, he is free!” says Annette, Achilles Kids Brooklyn Parent.
Virtual Miles and Smiles
The virtual Run Across the America has racked up nearly 12,000 miles so far collectively. More than 3,500 students across eight states and 80 schools are staying active and logging their miles.
The Lavelle School for the Blind in the Bronx, NY, culminated their own five week virtual marathon at a White Cane Day celebration this October, raising awareness of the achievements of the blind and visually impaired.