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Ultra-marathoner Scott Jurek joins Tom Panek for Boston

Tom Panek and Michael Friedman at the 2014 TCS NYC MarathonScott Jurek has announced that he will be acting as a sighted guide for Guiding Eyes President and CEO Thomas Panek.  Jurek’s resume includes victories in nearly all of ultra-running’s elite trail and road events, including the historic 153-mile Spartathlon, the Hardrock 100, the Badwater 135-mile Ultramarathon, the Miwok 100K, and his signature race, the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run, which he won a record seven straight times.

While some visually impaired runners have enough sight to run on their own, most have sighted guides who run with them, often on short tethers, advising them of turns, potholes, potential collisions and other hazards. These running pairs often form long friendships, bonding through their shared challenges.

“As President and CEO of Guiding Eyes for the Blind, I’m passionate about connecting exceptional guide dogs to those with vision loss and special needs – allowing them to maintain their independence and confidence.

After losing my eyesight during my 20s, I gave up running and thought I would never be able to run again.  However, I’m proud to announce that on April 20th I will be taking part in the Boston Marathon.  I look forward to the challenge – and to the exhilaration of crossing the finish line alongside my volunteer sighted guide, elite ultra-marathoner Scott Jurek.

Guiding Eyes dogs help individuals and families find new confidence to tackle all life’s adventures, no matter how big or small.  All of our dogs are provided to people with vision loss FREE OF CHARGE. If you are able, please donate now and allow those who are visually impaired to know they can overcome any challenge.  Your kindness means so much. Thank you for your generosity!”