Tracey's Story: The freedom of running

Tracey is diabetic and blind, and in her words she was ‘a recluse, not going out socially’ until one day she was told about a running group starting in Bristol. After a bit of a push by a few people she decided to go along, where she met licenced guide runner Colin Johnson and was guided on a 2 mile run / walk.

Tracey tells her story

I decided I needed to change my life and this was a chance which came along, it was a good chance to make a healthy change and start on a new adventure.

I've got the bug now, even though I have had a few injuries, I just love the freedom and being outside. Come rain, snow or sun I run! Being blind it was something I never thought I could do, it motivates me to get out of bed in the morning. Before I had no drive but now I run, swim, and go to the gym.

Inspiring others

I’ve now got a few guide runners, Tim Carr and Anneka Bull who are amazing! I enter parkruns and now I’m entering my first half marathon as well. I’ve encouraged other visually impaired people to come along and now they’re hooked too! We’re entering a 24 hour Cotswold 100 mile race which is brilliant to think this is even possible.

Tracey’s advice for other people thinking about starting running?

‘Just pluck up the courage and go for it, it’s a sense of freedom for a blind person which normally you thought you would never have, amazing!’

Ready to put your best foot forward?

• Go to www.englandathletics.org/guide-workshop to find out more about guide running
• Go to www.englandathletics.org/findaguide to find a guide runner near you