Lima Half Marathon: Uniting Athletes and Promoting Social Inclusion

This Sunday, August 25, the 115th edition of the Lima Half Marathon will not only be another sporting event but a true symbol of inclusion and empathy. Amidst thousands of runners who will challenge themselves in this competition, the participation of Achilles Peru will stand out, an organization dedicated to helping athletes with visual and physical disabilities, allowing them to demonstrate that sport is a powerful tool for equality. This year, 10 athletes will be part of the 10-kilometer category, accompanied by volunteer guides who share their passion and commitment to sport. Claudia Gamarra, director of Achilles Peru, is the voice supporting this noble cause. In her own words, “our work is to promote sports for people with disabilities,” emphasizing the importance of creating spaces where these individuals can not only compete but also feel part of a community. For many of these athletes, sport represents a way to connect and share experiences, creating bonds that transcend the physical and become an emotional support. The organization has been operating for six years and adheres to the model of Achilles International, which has a presence in several countries around the world, including Germany and Brazil. Claudia highlights that their mission goes beyond athletics; it aims to plant the seed of inclusion and empathy towards people with disabilities in society. “When they come here, they feel like they have a family,” she states, recalling that often the barriers are not just physical but also in the mindsets of those around them. The existence of Achilles Peru responds to an evident need in society. Claudia shares personal and external experiences where the lack of empathy and accessibility has led many to abandon their dreams and aspirations. “I have had the misfortune of meeting people who are not empathetic,” she mentions, reflecting a reality that must be confronted and transformed. Inclusion should not just be a concept but an active practice that empowers all individuals, regardless of their abilities. Achilles Peru's efforts are not limited to the Half Marathon. In order to continue expanding their reach, Claudia mentions that their next goal is to participate in the Viña del Mar Marathon in Chile. “It’s an international family. It doesn’t matter the language; we convey the message,” she says with pride. This sense of community and connection is vital to the organization’s mission, which seeks to inspire and motivate more people to get involved in adapted sports. Within this community, the experience of being a guide is equally enriching. Two guides have shared their testimonies about what it means to accompany an athlete with visual impairment. For them, guiding goes beyond simple assistance; it involves a deep connection that requires trust and constant communication. “My hands, joined to the tape, move and create an imperceptible path that my friend makes his own,” explains one of the guides, highlighting the beauty of collaboration and teamwork. The accounts of these guides also emphasize the commitment and dedication involved in being part of Achilles Peru. One of them mentions how he decided to join the organization after discovering their work and the opportunity to help others achieve their athletic goals. “Being a guide represents commitment, dedication, and pride,” he shares, emphasizing that athletics can and must be accessible to everyone. Both guides agree that, despite the challenges they face, the joy and satisfaction of seeing their teammates cross the finish line are invaluable. “The hardest and yet the most beautiful part is knowing that with my eyes and my voice, with their drive and their legs, we can run together,” says one of them, reflecting the spirit of perseverance that characterizes Achilles Peru. Sunday’s event will not just be another competition; it will be a reminder that sport has the power to unite and transform lives. Achilles Peru invites us to reflect on inclusion and empathy, values that must be promoted in all areas of society. As the athletes prepare to compete, the true triumph lies in the ability to celebrate diversity together and foster an environment where everyone has the opportunity to reach the finish line, regardless of the circumstances.