The Achilles Rundown: Summer 2021 Newsletter

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Achilles Athlete Publishes Children’s Book to Help Youth Realize What’s Possible
Achilles Athlete Publishes Children’s Book to Help Youth Realize What’s Possible

Suraj Chaitan of Achilles NYC is a dedicated handcyclist who balances graduate school, a career in rehabilitation, and a full schedule of training and racing. A regular at Achilles workouts, he is also a mentor to newer athletes and recently published a children’s book focused on disability and access. But beyond the miles and medals, Suraj’s story is about something bigger: access, mindset, and showing others what’s possible. Read a Q&A with Suraj.

Athletes with Disabilities Complete Six Star Abbott WMM Journey at 2026 Tokyo Marathon
Athletes with Disabilities Complete Six Star Abbott WMM Journey at 2026 Tokyo Marathon

The 2026 Tokyo Marathon marked both a competitive achievement and a global gathering for the Achilles community, as athletes from multiple countries came together to compete on one of the sport’s largest international stages.

Over $125,000 Awarded to Athletes with Disabilities to Fund Destination Races
Over $125,000 Awarded to Athletes with Disabilities to Fund Destination Races

Achilles athletes with disabilities received over $125,000 in grant funding in 2025 to help fund their dream races thanks to the support of the Cordani Family Grant Program. In its inaugural year, the program awarded a total of 111 athletes grants in 2025. From international races, to local 5K events and even a summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, these grants are going directly to fund the dream races and experiences of civilian Achilles athletes across the United States. Read more.

Achilles Athletes Reach Handcycle Podium in Houston and Conquer Disney in Florida
Achilles Athletes Reach Handcycle Podium in Houston and Conquer Disney in Florida

Achilles athletes kicked off the New Year at the Chevron Houston Marathon, Half Marathon, and We Are Houston 5K, by sweeping the handcycle divisions, earning multiple podium finishes. Several first-time competitors also made strong debuts, showcasing the depth and talent of the team. Meanwhile in Florida, 50 Achilles athletes competed in the Walt Disney® World Marathon Weekend events, including seven who completed the Dopey Challenge (a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon) over four consecutive days.

Record Number of Athletes with Disabilities Conquer the NYC Marathon
Record Number of Athletes with Disabilities Conquer the NYC Marathon

More than 300 athletes with disabilities and their volunteer guides from around the world came to New York City to take on the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon on November 2, 2025. Despite bad weather and travel delays, a record number of Achilles athletes from around the world made the journey to the Big Apple to take on this race, marking one of our largest fields yet.

Achilles International Featured in Bank of America Chicago Marathon Campaign
Achilles International Featured in Bank of America Chicago Marathon Campaign

Achilles International is honored to be featured in the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon campaign, which spotlights the story of two longtime members of the Achilles community: Zach Stinson, military veteran of the Achilles Freedom Team, and his wife Tesa, a charity runner with Team Achilles. Their strength, resilience, and teamwork capture the very heart of our mission.

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