The first ever Runthrough Relay event was hosted on Thursday evening in Stratford Olympic Park, and the team from Achilles International were thrilled to participate! Our VI (visually impaired) runners and sighted guides made up 4 teams of 3 runners each, ready to run a baton around 5km of the West Ham Stadium, City Mill River Path and across the Iron Bridge. 134 teams from all across London were lined up ready to run from the Pool Street Market- an incredible atmosphere on the night!

Behind the scenes, volunteer coordinators Simon Fitzmaurice, Chris Blackabee and Mark Durban had spent a few weeks of organising and messaging to make sure that every VI runner had a guide, and that everyone knew where to meet and when to run. It was amazing to see a plan come together, and all of our Achilles International crew were able to cheer and celebrate each others achievements.

Well done to everyone running, guiding, dog minding (Mario and Spike!), coordinating and cheering from the side lines. Thank you for a wonderful evening of running!

Saturday morning : Guilford and Godalming were invaded by some very unusal species in the area...not the Foxes but runners. Loads of them to come and test their trail endurance. Godalming started first with the ultra runners like Simon and Steph Ducat : tackle the hills on a 62km race. Then the all mighty Michael did his bit with the marathon distance. The 3 goodgymers tackled the hills, muddy routes, tight areas invaded by brambles and other know plants they normally have to deal with on their community missions. They dodge cars as open road race and some areas they play the 80's arcade game "The Frogger" with the help of the brilliant marshals. The end was also very tricky as damp, slippery logs and attacking bushes. All made it safe and sound to the finish line to enjoy their medal but also the food like pizzas and burgers. Well done Goodgymers!!