Blind Fitness Partners with Santa Barbara Half Marathon & 5k to Empower Blind and Low-Vision Athletes

Blind Fitness is thrilled to announce its partnership with the Santa Barbara Half Marathon & 5k, taking place on Sunday, November 3, 2024. This inclusive event invites nearly 30 blind and low-vision athletes from across California and beyond to challenge themselves alongside sighted runners, highlighting the strength and determination of athletes with disabilities.

Event Schedule:

• Community Dinner: Saturday, November 2, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 1500 State St., Santa Barbara
• Race Day: Sunday, November 3
• Half Marathon: 7:00 a.m.
• 5k: 8:30 a.m.
• Location: Race starts at the corner of Yanonali and State St., near the Blind Fitness tent in front of the Reagan Ranch Center, 217 State St., Santa Barbara, CA.

A Celebration of Community and Inspiration: Blind Fitness is hosting a pre-race Community Dinner on November 2, in collaboration with the Santa Barbara & Goleta Lions Club and Delta Gamma from UC Santa Barbara. Participants, their guides, and community members will enjoy a delicious pasta meal from Kyle’s Kitchen. With a lineup of inspiring speakers, including three blind athletes and a retina surgeon, this evening will be a celebration of resilience, community, and connection.

About Blind Fitness: Founded to create accessible opportunities for individuals who are blind or have low vision, Blind Fitness empowers participants to engage in physical and recreational activities. The organization addresses the societal barriers that limit access to fitness and strives to educate the public on the capabilities of individuals with vision loss. Blind Fitness promotes independence and community engagement through activities like running, hiking, yoga, and outrigger canoeing.

Blind Fitness’ Mission: “To empower people who are blind or have low vision through sports, recreation, and physical activity while educating the public of their abilities.”

Sponsors and Partners: This event is made possible with support from Wayfinder Family Services, the Santa Barbara & Goleta Lions Club, Delta Gamma Sorority, United in Stride, the Santa Barbara Athletic Association, Kyle’s Kitchen, Run Local, the McManigal Family, Richard & Heidi Hunter, and Blue Planet Eyewear.