Balega International, the producer of performance running socks, partnered with Achilles International to help disabled athletes compete in the 2016 TCS New York City Marathon.
Achilles International is a non-profit foundation that supports individuals with all types of disabilities who attain personal achievement and conquer physical limitations through participation in mainstream running events. Balega will be providing financial and product support to the Achilles International runners who will participate in the NYC Marathon on Sunday, November 6.
The performance sock brand gives back to its South African community by supporting the Ethembeni School, a South African school for physically disabled and visually impaired learners.
Ethembeni School has a rich history with athletics and particularly running, as the school sits directly on the course of the famed Comrades ultramarathon in South Africa. The school is actively involved with Achilles, which offers an opportunity for Ethembeni students to weave athletics into their education. Through the Ethembeni School, Balega built a relationship with Achilles International that became the foundation for their marathon partnership.
Since 1983, Achilles International has been pairing volunteers with disabled athletes to help them run, walk, cycle or swim. Founded in New York City, Achilles provides training, encouragement, technical expertise, logistical support and race entry fees to individuals who otherwise would not be able to compete in such rewarding experiences. The non-profit has expanded to more than 60 countries, with 40 chapters in the United States alone. In 2000, Achilles International created its South African branch in recognition of the Ethembeni School.
“Through our long-standing involvement and partnership with the Ethembeni School, teaming up with the Achilles Foundation was a natural fit for Balega,” stated Tanya Pictor, VP of marketing at Implus Specialty Retail Brands. “What a privilege to be in a position to see the other side of this magnificent race, where true grit and grace comes to play. We are so honored to support the Achilles Foundation.”
Rooted in South African traditions, Balega brings the Ubuntu spirit to the world. Ubuntu originated in Africa and roughly translates to mean “human kindness.” The term, popularized by Nelson Mandela, translates to, “I am a person through other people,” meaning only by banding together as a community and working together can we truly call ourselves human. This year, Runner’s World editor Bart Yasso will be running hand-in-hand with Godfrey Shumana Bongumusa, a blind student from the Ethembeni school, bringing to life the idea of Ubuntu.
“Balega is a very generous company with a social conscience and Achilles is delighted to have their support in the Athletes With Disabilities Reunion Area of the NYC Marathon,” stated Eleanor Cox-Nihill, director, Chapter Development of Achilles International. “We look forward to steeping our athletes in the extra attention they will receive this year post-marathon!”
On race day, Achilles International will have a display tent at the Athletes with Disabilities Family Reunion Area (AWDFR) on West 72nd Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue for athletes and their families. Balega will give away custom printed, African inspired, bead patterned neck gaiters for warmth and comfort along with handwarmers from Yaktrax. Trigger Point will provide a rolling station where you can foam roll to relax your muscles. Mizuno generously donated apparel and shoes in support of this unique community.
To learn more about Balega and the Ethembeni School, visit the Balega website: balega.com/our-sole.
