RunKeeper, the Boston-based running app, is more than just a milage tracker. While their high tech capabilities allow for users to track their distance and share on multiple social media platforms, the voice command has been the guide for Simon Wheatcroft — an avid runner who is also blind.
According to RunKeeper, the Doncaster, England native has been able to rely on the fitness app’s audio cues to help guide him on the open road, which helped him gain the confidence to start running and eventually become an ultramarathoner.
And this week, in an act of sheer athleticism, Wheatcroft will be running from Boston to New York City finishing his run with the NYC Marathon.
The 2014 Boston Marathon saw an increase of visually impaired and blind participants than in years past. In fact, the fastest blind female marathon runner competed in our very own Hub’s 26.2-miler this year. As part of the Mobility Impaired Division, Amy McDonaugh is another elite athlete to read up on.
On Wednesday, join RunKeeper as they send Wheatcroft off in style with a party to celebrate his incredible journey. It all begins at 5 p.m. at the Greater Boston Running Company located in Newton.
According to their Eventbrite page, you’ll “mingle over some drinks and snacks first, and then Simon will share his amazing story and upcoming journey — and meet a special guest he’s long admired. You better get there early because we’ll have some limited edition t-shirts to give away!” As they said, be sure to register for this free event!
On Thursday morning at 7:00 a.m., RunKeeper continues the festivities by cheering Wheatcroft on as he begins the first leg of his journey. It all starts at the RunKeeper headquarters located on 60 Canal Street in Boston and continues to the Boston Marathon finish line. This elite athlete will then run the Boston Marathon route in reverse with his first rest stop being Hopkinton.
According to RunKeeper, Wheatcroft will then continue to New York, running a daily marathon for 9 days, and staying with hosts provided by Airbnb and connecting with local communities along the way. Quite the feat, especially considering he is blind.
So join the Boston-based running app as they celebrate and send off this inspiring member of the community. And if you can’t make the events, you can follow his journey with RunKeeper online.
Images via RunKeeper
