Parkrun lending some guiding hands to the visually impaired

THE LOCAL Parkrun group is launching an initiative to involve more people with visual impairments to participate in the weekly 5k Parkrun every Saturday morning.

The initiative is being launched in association with the National Council for the Blind (NCBI).

The South East Ambassador for Parkrun, Stuart Van Der Bliake trains others to become visual guides. Johnstown Parkrun, which is currently being held at Wexford Racecourse, have volunteers who are taking part in this training, learning how to give clear direction, information and help when completing the walk/run.

Stuart said: ‘Visually impaired people rely on sound and listen to the directions from the guide so they can enjoy the social and health benefits of running. Exercise is very important for the physical and mental wellbeing of all participants and our guides can help everyone enjoy the 5K in a safe and supportive environment.’

On Saturday, June 9, at 9.30 a.m. at Wexford Racecourse, Karen Kealy, a visually impaired runner from Carlow will run the Parkrun course and then assist in a free training programme for visual guides at 10.45 a.m. Joan Ryan, the national trainer for the NCBI and Mary McGee from Lochrann House will also assist with the training.

Anyone who is interested in attending the training is encouraged to come along or contact Stuart either on the Johnstown Parkrun Facebook page or by calling 087 211 5623.