40 Years of Achilles Miles to Remember
This January, Achilles International celebrated 40 years of empowering athletes with disabilities to reframe what’s possible. Over the last four decades, our athletes, volunteer guides, Team Achilles charity runners and supporters have made their mark on our organization.
We asked the Achilles community to share their favorite Achilles “miles” or memories with us, from major marathons to weekly workouts.
"Achilles has made every single mile matter,” says Devann Murphy of Achilles NYC.
Below are some highlights:
“My favorite Achilles mile was at the Hartford Marathon in October 2018. I watched as my son and three other guides helped the late Vinny, who lived with cerebral palsy, conquer his goal of completing a full marathon. To see my son, who ran cross country in high school and college, give up his time and energy to give back to assist others in the sport he loves was a very proud moment for me. He really helped to make a difference in Vinny’s life. This moment also inspired me to become involved as a guide myself.” - Bruce Whitney, Achilles Connecticut
“My favorite memory with Achilles was crossing the Verrazano Bridge during the NYC Marathon in November. This was my first marathon since becoming an amputee and it was so exciting to be back on the start line. I was a bit uncertain how the race would go for me but I knew I had the support of my awesome Achilles guides and the cheers from the thousands of spectators along the 26.2 miles. It was also pretty cool having front row seats to see this pack of elite women make their way across the bridge too!” - Kim McCoy, Achilles NYC
“My Achilles mile was in one of my first races where my guide told me ‘Come on you're not alone, I'll go with you’. That day I learned that I was never alone and never would be thanks to Achilles Mexico and from my sister being my guide. Thank you to all my family members who have supported me at all times and thank you to my team because they motivate me to give it my best each and every day.” - Eduardo Segura, Achilles Mexico
“Even though I had participated in competitions before, I never realized what it would really be like to be part of a team. Last year, after joining Achilles, I felt how important it is for a true athlete to have consistent training, a well-organized team and a good atmosphere. I am grateful to be part of Achilles." - Tungalagtuya Choijkhorol, Achilles Mongolia
"My [favorite] memory with Achilles is running as a guide in the 2021 New York City Marathon for my daughter Samantha, who lives with autism. This memory means so much to us. Samantha became the youngest female with autism to cross the finish line. Our next marathon will be Chicago with Team Achilles. Thank you for all that you do. We are proud to be part of Achilles." - Karina, Achilles Guide
“Although it is difficult for me to choose a favorite moment, #MyAchillesMile I keep in my heart, is to give myself the opportunity to share the mission with volunteers with an admirable sense of generosity. Throughout seven years in Achilles México, I have been able to work with more than 200 guides who dedicate their time, their athletic capacity and their heart so that people with disabilities can achieve their sports goals. Together, athletes with disabilities and guides help make sports accessible to all people. In addition, thanks to Achilles International I have been able to meet athletes with disabilities and guides from other chapters around the world that motivate us to continue in this mission with more and more passion. That's why, every time we cross the finish line as a team, it's a unique and special moment. Long live Achilles International!” - Teresita de Jesús Robledo Ríos, Achilles Mexico
“My Achilles mile was seeing everyone’s smiling faces for the past year. Seeing the same athletes almost weekly and how excited they are to be there and run and walk with us gets me out of bed early on Saturday mornings, even in the cold winter!” - Deena Zeelans, Achilles Volunteer
“Since joining Achilles, no goal has been reached without the support, motivation, and training of the amazing volunteer support runners, coaches, and the great friendships we make along the way… Life was restored, and a new passion was discovered. All for one, and one for all.” - Mauricio Blandino, Achilles NYC
“My Favorite Achilles Mile was in September of 2012 when Dusty Sweeney, our severely autistic, non-verbal son, who was 15 years old at the time, crushed the 5th Avenue Mile with guides Katie and Paula! Happy 40th Anniversary Achilles!” - Katie Sweeney
Thank you to our incredible community. The last 40 years would not have been possible without your continued dedication and support.
Get involved as an athlete living with a disability or a volunteer guide or make a donation.
