Achilles NYC Director Is First Blind Athlete to Complete Ultraman Florida
Francesco Magisano, Director of Achilles NYC Metro Region, completed Ultraman Florida, a 321.6 mile, three day triathlon on February 12. He became the first blind athlete to complete the event which consisted of a 10K swim, 263 mile bike ride, and a 52.4 mile run.
“I’d like to be an example of an athlete living with a disability for those who might not have ever met one and to prove that competitive and challenging athletics is part of my life in the same way that it is for someone without a disability,” says Francesco. “I also strive to be a good example for other athletes with disabilities who might be in the same position I was in the past. Growing up, I never participated in any sort of organized sports team. The first time I ran a mile or swam a lap was back in 2017 when I first discovered Achilles International.”
He finished in 26th place with a time of 33:50:14 alongside his guide Brian Hammond, his crew members Travis Hawkins, Greg Plumb, Wesley DeMauro, and Tianna Biscone, and other Achilles friends.
“I love pushing myself to the extreme,” says Francesco. It helps me figure out what my limitations are. Then I can use what I learned and explore pushing past those limitations to redefine what is possible and what I am capable of.”
“Being totally blind, I am constantly faced with what others perceive as limitations. Being able to say that I finished this challenge is just one more way that I can advocate for athletes with disabilities and harden myself personally,” he adds.
We congratulate Francesco and look forward to cheering him and his chapter athletes across the next finish line.
Read a feature on Francesco in AmeriDisability here and listen to his interview on the Ultra Podcast.
