Discovering Running Guides

Earlier this week, Thomas Panek, an avid runner and the President & CEO of Guiding Eyes, was joined by Terri Rupp, a 2024 graduate and ultramarathoner. They were featured on WBUR, an NPR public radio station in Boston, Massachusetts, where they discussed the impact that having a Running Guide has had on their lives, as well as on the lives of many others with vision loss. Thomas also shared those moments and conversations years ago that asked the question, “Why can’t guide dogs be trained to run?” Click on the link below to hear this engaging conversation about the Guiding Eyes Running Guide Program.

“The dog is like an extension of my being.”

“They’re communicating with us through the feel of the harness.”

Thomas Panek

“I was so grateful when I got the call …they found the right dog that was paired with both my running and walking pace.”

“It means so much more freedom for me to get out and run, when I want to and where I want to.”

Terri Rupp

Like the many amazing guide dogs trained at Guiding Eyes throughout the years, those specially trained in our Running Guides program have paved the way for greater independence. This innovative program enables blind athletes to pursue their fitness goals safely and independently, allowing them to run without being reliant on a human guide or limited by a treadmill.

Listen to their interview on WBUR’s Here & Now program.

If you, or someone you know, are blind or living with vision loss and are considering partnering with a guide dog, please visit our Apply page for more information.