On Sunday, Clarke Reynolds completed the Brighton Marathon in England using smart glasses connected to the Be My Eyes app, becoming the first blind person to finish a full marathon with this type of support. The 45-year-old artist from Portsmouth, who has about 5% vision due to a rare genetic eye disorder, used smart glasses connected to remote volunteers who could see his perspective and guide him in real time. He finished the 26.2-mile race in just under six hours and 20 minutes with additional in-person support from guide runner Alaistair Ratcliffe.
Hundreds of volunteers from locations around the world helped guide and encourage Reynolds throughout his training and during the race. Using the app, they gave him directions and feedback, while Ratcliffe stepped in to guide him if they had connectivity issues. Reynolds trained every day in the lead up to the marathon using the same system, connecting with volunteers as he ran.
He was running in support of the charity Fight for Sight UK, where he serves as an ambassador, and raised over $3-thousand for the organization. Reynolds also wanted to test the new technology and connect with people through the experience, while volunteers and supporters followed his progress throughout the event. At the finish line, he was presented with his medal, which he gave to Ratcliffe.
Source: TALKER NEWS
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