Mehdi runs despite vision loss with guide
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In Lyon, France, Mehdi, a 40-year-old man with impaired vision, now runs regularly with assistance from Nicolas, a guide he met through the Valentin Haüy Association’s “Courir en Duo” (Run in Pairs) group.
Mehdi has limited vision in one eye and balance problems, making independent running difficult. The “Courir en Duo” program pairs sighted runners with visually impaired individuals, using a tether to guide them during training and races.
Mehdi discovered the program after searching for a way to run despite his disability. He explained that running with a guide removes the mental weight of anticipating obstacles, allowing him to focus on the run itself. Nicolas, who volunteers with other associations, joined the group last year to help runners like Mehdi achieve their goals, recently helping Mehdi beat his personal record by eleven minutes in a 10km race.
The pair communicate constantly during runs, with Nicolas describing the surroundings and atmosphere. They build trust and a friendly relationship through their shared activity. Mehdi now aims to compete in the 10km race in Caluire and is considering a half-marathon next year, demonstrating that people with disabilities can achieve athletic success.
