Running USA and Achilles International Webinar: Best Practices for Making Your Race More Accessible
Organizing a race is more than just planning a fast, fun course—it’s about building an event that embraces all athletes, including those with disabilities. On June 10, 2025, Achilles International teamed up with Running USA to host a webinar titled “Best Practices for Making Your Race More Accessible.” Find key takeaways on the Achilles International website here
Panelists Francesco Magisano, Director, NYC Metro, at Achilles International, and Janet Patton, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, Achilles International, offered a wealth of actionable insights across every stage of race planning—from registration to post-finish celebrations.
1. Registration
Simplify sign-up: Ensure your online process and race forms are compatible with assistive technologies and include accommodations for guide runners.
Gather participant info: Provide options to disclose wheelchair use, handcycles, guides, etc., to tailor support.
Show representation: Use inclusive images and proper alt text to reflect diverse participants.
Facilitate communication: Allow participants to request a guide runner directly and consider offering guides free of charge.
Centralize resources: Create a dedicated web page outlining athlete resources and maintain open email contact for accommodation questions.
2. Pre-Race Planning
Thoughtful logistics: Include accessibility in corrals, announcements, start times, and volunteer/staff training.
Educate volunteers: Teach the difference between racing wheelchairs, handcycles, etc., so support teams and spectators understand and celebrate appropriately.
Clear communication: Warn participants and staff about arrival times for wheeled athletes and potential safety issues.
Facility readiness: Ensure accessible restrooms and bag drop areas; consider ASL interpreters and sensory calm-down zones.
Course insight: Alert athletes and guides beforehand about terrain challenges or layout changes.
3. On-Course Considerations
Barrier-free route: Limit curbs, stairs, narrow paths, cobblestones, and sharp turns—adapt or detour where needed.
Safety protocols: Enforce speed rules, use warning flags or signage, and assign bike escorts when appropriate.
Mechanical aid: Station quick-repair crews for wheelchairs/handcycles; flag low-profile handcycles for better visibility.
4. Post-Race & Celebration
Accessible finish area: Design flow patterns that accommodate adaptive equipment and personal assistants.
Equitable ceremonies: Structure award ceremonies and recovery zones with wheelchair users in mind.
Visible signage: Ensure directional and informational signs serve all athletes.
Acknowledgment: Recognize athletes with disabilities in speeches and awards to elevate inclusion.
Key takeaways: You don’t have to implement everything at once. Even one simple tweak—like adding an accommodation email or guide request field—can make a meaningful difference. These incremental steps pave the way for a more inclusive race experience.
When in doubt, treat athletes with disabilities with the same patience, respect, and care you’d want. At the heart of inclusivity lies empathy—and every thoughtful adjustment enriches the event for all participants.