How to Request an Accommodation for a Race

Every athlete deserves the opportunity to participate in a race as safely and independently as possible. For athletes with disabilities, that may mean requesting an accommodation such as a guide, adaptive equipment, accessible baggage arrangements or another form of support.

Because every race has its own policies, timelines and procedures, it is important to plan ahead and communicate directly with the race organizer about what you need. The tips below can help you prepare, make a clear request and know what steps to take if challenges arise.

• Start early: Some races require accommodation requests well before race day.

• Be specific: Clearly explain what accommodation you need and how it supports your safe participation.

• Know your race: Review the course, start and finish procedures, transportation and equipment rules for potential accessibility needs.

• Prepare documentation: Some races or athletes with disabilities divisions may require verification.

• Don't assume policies are universal: An accommodation or piece of adaptive equipment permitted at one race may be handled differently at another.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When should I request an accommodation?

  As early as possible. Check the race website for published deadlines, ideally before registering. If no deadline or accessibility process is listed, contact the organizer directly.

• How do I request a guide or another accommodation?

  Look for an accessibility, adaptive athlete or athletes with disabilities section on the race website. If there isn't one, contact the race director or organizer and explain what you need. If you participate through an Achilles chapter, your chapter leadership may also be able to help you navigate the process.

• What information should I include in my request?

  Focus on what you need and why it is important to your participation. A sample email that you can adapt to your circumstances is below:

  I am an athlete with a disability registered for [INSERT RACE NAME] and am requesting to participate with [INSERT ACCOMMODATION, e.g., two guide runners, a frame runner].

  This accommodation is important for me to participate safely and effectively because [INSERT BRIEF EXPLANATION, e.g., I need support navigating the course, crowded or loud conditions, aid stations or other race-day environments].

  Please let me know whether you need any additional information or documentation to consider my request, as well as any specific requirements I should be aware of. Thank you for your consideration and for helping me plan appropriately for race day.

• What adaptive equipment am I allowed to use?

  It depends on the race. If you use a racing wheelchair, handcycle, racing frame, tether, crutches or other adaptive equipment, review the event's rules and contact the organizer with questions. Equipment requirements are not standardized across all races, so when in doubt, ask.

• What happens if my accommodation request is denied?

  A denial does not necessarily have to end the conversation. Ask why the request was denied and whether another option could meet your needs within the race's rules. You might ask whether:

  • Another accommodation could address the same need.

  • There is another way to participate safely within the event's policies.

  • A deferral or refund is available if the denial prevents you from participating.

  If you're an Achilles member, your chapter leadership can also be a resource as you consider next steps.

• What if I need a guide but do not currently have one?

  Join a local Achilles chapter and speak with your chapter leadership about guide availability and upcoming races. Athletes who are blind or have low vision who do not live near a chapter can also explore United in Stride, Achilles International's online tool that helps connect athletes with running and walking guides. Learn more here.

• What if I need to store a mobility cane, day chair or other equipment during the race?

  Ask the organizer about accessible baggage arrangements. Even if general baggage check isn't available, the race may be able to accommodate disability-related equipment that cannot meet its standard baggage requirements.

  Keep in mind that standard race baggage requirements may not work for every type of mobility equipment. For example, a non-folding cane may not fit into a race's required clear bag. Raising the issue in advance gives the organizer an opportunity to identify an alternative.

• What if the race does not have an athletes with disabilities section on its website?

  Contact the race director or organizer. Smaller events may not have a dedicated athletes with disabilities webpage, but that does not necessarily mean accommodations are unavailable.

  Clearly explain what you need and ask what options are available. Early communication gives both you and the organizer more time to find a solution that supports a safe and successful race experience.

• How do I know what accommodation is best for me?

  Practice makes perfect! Test out different options during training to see what makes you feel most comfortable and supported.

Remember, race policies and accommodation procedures vary by event and may change. Always review the most current information provided directly by the race organizer in advance.