Promoting health and wellbeing to the deaf and deafblind

March saw Run! City Bristol supporing an event organised through Access Sports Ignite Programme to promote health and wellbeing to the deaf and deafblind community.

The Ignite Programme is aimed at engaging more disabled people into sport and is part of Access Sport’s wider Legacy Programme, aiming to ensure that there is a lasting positive effect from the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics.

The Deaf and Deafblind Sports and Information Day was specifically arranged for deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing people who wanted to find out more about services available, but also to try a range of different sports which can be made accessible to them. The event was opened by Paralympic sprinter and medallist Ben Rushgrove and James Clarke a deaf and partially sighted (Usher Syndrome) runner who has set a personal challenge to accomplish 100 run finisher medals. 

James set himself the incredible goal of running 100 medalled events, from 10k runs to full marathons in 2008. Although James’ vision progressively decreases each year, he wanted to undertake a challenge where he could reflect and be proud of his achievements. The medals he gains from each event are things which he touch and feel helping to trigger memories. James is passionate about running and having been an Olympic Torch bearer in 2012, he was able to share his experiences and achievements throughout the event.

21 information stands and 15 sport activities were available throughout the day with Run! City Bristol offering a variety of running activities on their pop-up athletics track. 110 people attended thoroughly enjoying the activities and sports on offer.

Anna West, Run! City Activator for Bristol said, "It’s been fantastic to be a part of this event and to highlight that running can be accessible to all with a little bit of support. James has been an inspiration to many people today and so hopefully together we can encourage more deaf and deafblind children and adults into running."

If you would like to find out more about Run! City Bristol contact City Activator Anna West by email awest@englandathletics.org. You can also join their social media pages: www.facebook.com/RunCityBristol and www.twitter.com/RunCityBristol

To find out more about James’ 100 Run Medals Challenge follow him on facebook.