The Comeback of Hope and Possibility
On July 10, the 19th annual Achilles Hope & Possibility® 4M presented by TD Bank and hosted by New York Road Runners made its triumphant return in Central Park in New York. Nearly 4,000 runners completed the race in a sea of smiles, high-fives and hugs.
“Hope and Possibility embodies athletes of all abilities to come together in the running community and run for a great cause,” said Achilles athlete Lamar Brown, who is blind. He was guided on the race course by Tiki Barber, former New York Giants running back.
Since the pandemic began in 2020, it was Achilles' first in-person race and the first local race with mass start waves for runners. The event is among the world's largest road races bringing together athletes of all abilities.
“You have inspired not just myself over these years, but the entire country as we reawaken to possibilities and the hope of everything that we can accomplish,” said comedian and longtime Achilles supporter Jon Stewart at the start line.
Deborah Roberts, ABC News Network correspondent, and Al Roker, cheered on their son, Nick Roker, an Achilles athlete. Roker also participated in a segment of the Resilience Relay the day before.
“No matter what your ability or disability, there’s a place for you,” said Roberts.
Runners from across the country and Achilles chapters around the world also participated virtually during July to benefit Achilles.
Photo credits: Anthony Quintano/TD Bank; Victor Mirontschuk
