Reading Lions Club Journey for Sight Road Race

The Reading Lions Club will be holding their 28th annual Journey for Sight Road Race on Saturday, May 17th. This 5k race or 1 mile walk commences at Burbank Ice Arena at 9:00.

Through the proceeds from this event, we have been able to raise over $200,000 for sight related causes. Last year, National Braille Press, Perkins School for the Blind and Mass Association for the Blind all benefited from the Lions efforts.  In a conversation with Tom Clough from the Reading Lions Club, he mentioned "We are trying to increase the level of participation in this race/walk, which in turn impacts what we can donate to these wonderful organizations that provide training, skills, education and volunteers to the blind community”. Through the race/walk, the Reading Lions Club also will be raising awareness about the capabilities of individuals who are visually impaired and diseases which impact vision.  Among this year’s runners, there will be several blind individuals running as well as sighted individuals who will run blindfolded in solidarity. Some will be guided by members of the Reading girls track team.

Joe Quintanilla, a blind runner from National Braille Press (NBP) added “Running with a guide as a blind person or a blindfolded participant demonstrates that with the right support, a blind person can compete and be successful in any aspect of life. My guide is my eyes, but my legs, lungs and arms are doing all of the work.  This 5K race is a small example of what can happen with an adaptive strategy and an opportunity to run!  Whether it is reading a book in braille, going to school, learning how to use a cane, a blind person is just as capable as a sighted person”.  Proceeds for the race help NBP produce braille books like Curious George, Yummy Yucky and other childhood favorites.  NBP believes that every blind person has the right to read; listening is not reading. Proceeds from the race allow NBP to put more braille books in the hands of blind children and adults.  “We are thankful to have great friends in Reading” Quintanilla added.    

The Reading Lions Club has organized this event as either a 5k race or a 1 mile walk from the Burbank Ice Arena. It is held on Saturday, May 17th at 9:00 with registration beginning at 8:00. If you are runner/walker and/or know people who may be interested in helping to support a great cause, we encourage you to participate in this Reading community event. Registration can be done on-line at www.baystateevents.com or on the day of the race/walk. If you are interested in running blindfolded with a guide, please contact Tom Clough at Tom_Clough@verizon.net. Finally, if you aren't doing anything on the morning of May 17th, show what kind of town we are, grab your coffee and cheer on the runners. From Burbank Ice Arena the race works its way through Wakefield and Pearl Street before making its way back on Haverhill Street.