Running a marathon is tough. Running one without sight is extraordinary. In this episode, we meet Clarke Reynolds, also known as Mr Dot — a visually impaired artist and marathoner who’s taking on his next big challenge: the Brighton Marathon without a guide runner. Instead, he’ll rely on Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses and the Be My Eyes app, allowing volunteers around the world to guide him through the race in real time.

It’s a story of courage, technology, and community — where human connection meets innovation to make the impossible possible.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about trust, independence, and how tech can empower people to see the world in new ways.

You can support Clarke’s fundraising effort for the Fight for Sight charity right here on his JustGiving page.

If you’d like to join Clarke and run an event for Fight for Sight check out their events here, or email [email protected]  

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 channels, one on training and fundraising support, this one on runner stories and a third for members only. If you’d to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

Keywords

Braille technology, visually impaired, marathon running, assistive technology, innovation, accessibility, guide runners, personal challenges, technology in sports, empowerment

Summary

In this conversation, Clarke Reynolds, aka Mr Dot, discusses his journey of pushing the boundaries of braille technology and exploring the possibility of running a marathon without traditional aids like a guide runner or a white cane. He emphasises the role of innovation and technology in empowering visually impaired individuals to take on new challenges in sports and life.

Takeaways

I pushed the boundaries of braille.
What could I do with these amazing technology?
Can a person run a marathon without a guide runner?
People can run marathons with white canes.
Let’s do it with this technology.
This is about empowerment through technology.
Innovation can change lives.
Accessibility is key in sports.
Challenging norms in athletics.
Running is for everyone, regardless of ability.

Titles

Empowering the Visually Impaired Through Technology
Innovative Approaches to Marathon Running

Sound bites

“Innovation can change lives.”
“Accessibility is key in sports.”
“Challenging norms in athletics.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mr. Dot and His Journey
01:32 Overcoming Blindness: A Personal Story
03:33 Inspiring the Next Generation: Workshops and Charities
04:52 The London Marathon Experience: Challenges and Triumphs
08:09 Innovative Training: Using Technology to Run
11:39 The Brighton Marathon: A New Challenge
15:11 Fundraising and Community Support
18:22 Future Aspirations and Legacy