Visually impaired running programme begins

Ben Rhodes admitted his partnership was "scary" but would be "taking things steady"

A programme aimed at helping visually impaired athletes take up running has announced its first runner pairing.

The Guernsey Guiding the Way scheme launched in June and focuses on training local runners to serve as guides for athletes with visual impairments.

Guide runner Ben Rhodes has been partnered with partially sighted runner Michael Ellis, with many more successful partnerships planned, according to organisers.

Mr Ellis said: "It’s fantastic just having the opportunity to get out and enjoy the beautiful island we live in, whether it’s on the athletics track or out and about."

He added: "I’m keen to give anything a go, so when I was approached to try it I said yes.

"The challenges don’t have to stop you. You might have to do things differently but absolutely anyone can do this."

Overseen by Guernsey Athletics with support from the Active 8 Inclusion Officer, the programme is designed to tackle the barriers that often keep visually impaired people from being active.

According to the committee, these barriers include accessibility challenges, a lack of available opportunities, limited awareness of inclusive sports options, and concerns about safety and confidence in navigating public spaces.

Mr Rhodes said: "I came across this through a Facebook post from the athletics club saying they were looking for volunteer guide runners to work with visually impaired people, and I loved the idea of the initiative.

"I did the training and I’ve been paired with Michael. We’ve been running together for the past couple of weeks.

Mr Rhodes added: "It’s scary for me being responsible for Michael, but we’re taking things steady."