Start Lines Initiative

Achilles International was born out of our late founder’s vision to cross the start line of the New York City Marathon as the first amputee on a prosthetic leg. Today, decades later, our athletes with disabilities run, walk and roll in parks and on race courses around the world, their bright neon yellow jerseys sparking inspiration with every stride.

The Achilles Start Lines Initiative ensures that legacy continues to prosper. It promotes people with disabilities’ participation in local and travel races and supports them in achieving their race goals. Below are the various opportunities to help break down barriers to the start line for Achilles athletes around the world.

When you cross your finish line, you inspire someone else’s start line.

  • Athlete Billy Davis posing with adaptive cycles

    Cordani Family Grant Program

    Thanks to the generosity of David Cordani, Chairman and CEO, The Cigna Group, Achilles provides funding for U.S. based athletes to cover destination race related expenses.

    Learn More
  • Guide crossing finish line with Achilles athlete

    International Athlete Grant

    Achilles athletes with disabilities outside of the U.S. may apply for a grant of up to $1,500 for race related costs including travel, visa fees or hotel accommodations.

    Learn More
  • Two racers high fiving

    Local Laps

    Achilles provides support for domestic chapters to promote greater athlete participation in races in their community, including by subsidizing race fees.

    Find a Chapter
  • Two handcyclists

    Marathon Tour

    In the cities where we have a major presence, Achilles plans a series of special team bonding gatherings and experiences at the major marathons.

    Learn More

 Additional Resources

For additional information on the Start Lines initiative, contact Elisheva Jasie at ejasie@achillesinternational.org. Learn more about how you can join us on our Start Lines and the Marathon Tour by clicking on the race calendar from your Rosterfy dashboard.

Looking for additional grant opportunities for adaptive equipment? Learn more here. For training tips and tools, visit our Training Hub, and view blog pieces on on AWD course specific tips.

Achilles Marathon Tour

Whether a walk in the park every week or training to reach the podium of a division, Achilles is here to support athletes with disabilities on their quest to conquer a marathon. Every year, you may recognize us on race courses around the globe by our neon yellow jerseys and loud “Go Achilles!” cheers. In the cities where we have a major presence, we plan a series of special team bonding gatherings and experiences, that are part of what we call the Achilles Marathon Tour. We roll out the red carpet for Achilles athletes and military veterans of the Achilles Freedom Team in a variety of ways thanks to our sponsors to ensure race weekend is meaningful, memorable and successful, such as by providing:

  • Equipment tune-ups and access*

  • Assistance with registration procedures

  • Assistance finding a guide

  • Hotel discounts*

  • Transportation and meals*

  • Local excursions*

*Offerings vary by chapter, city and resources.

Learn more and tell us about the Marathon Tour races you are registered for or interested in on the Marathon Tour race calendar on Rosterfy.

DJ and his guides

“Achilles proves that people are invested in my success not just for me, but for all Achilles athletes. It eliminates barriers that might otherwise create stress or obstacles. And it allows us to show up fully as ourselves, to share our stories, and to pave the way for future athletes.

When you understand your ‘why,’ you understand your purpose. The Cordani Family Grant allows me to live out that purpose.”

— Davian “DJ” Robinson, Charlotte, NC