The 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games are fast approaching! To be held from August 24–September 5, 2021, these international multi-sport games feature the world's most elite athletes with disabilities.
Jerome Avery is a guide runner for US Paralympics Track & Field, working as a guide for Paralympic champion and world-record holder David Brown. Additionally, Jerome is a close friend of our very own team leader, Carrie Lingo. Our team was gifted with the opportunity to interview Jerome and learn more about his experiences in the Paralympic games. Read our full interview with Jerome below!
Tell us about yourself and your Paralympic career.
My name is Jerome Avery, and I'm a 100m 200m track runner. I qualified for the Olympic Trials in 2004, 2008, and 2012, but my biggest accomplishment is being a Paralympic guide runner. This happened for me in 2004 after coming up short at the Olympic trials and getting knocked out in the semifinals. A good friend with whom I trained was a Paralympic athlete and told me that the US Paralympic Team was looking for a guide runner. The first time I was paired up with someone who couldn't see was in 2004, and I was up for the challenge. Since then, I've been to four Paralympic games and put three different athletes on the podium: one silver, and two golds.
What is the most fulfilling part of your job?
The most fulfilling part of my job would have to be knowing that I'm valued in playing a vital role in someone else's career and success. My job has taught me how important it is in communication, teamwork, leadership, trust, and delegating one's responsibilities. It also taught me how to paint a picture in such a way that one who is blind can see and envision it.
What do you want the world to know about the Paralympics?
Paralympians are elite athletes that have overcome so many different obstacles to prove that they are one of the best, which is why the awareness is now being shared on a global scale. Success through selflessness ("If he/she wins, I win") is a big key in making things happen, and that's what I've learned as a guide runner.
Our team is so fortunate to have such a stellar connection as Jerome, and it is our pleasure to share his terrific work with our local Sussex County, Delaware community!
READ MORE about Jerome's story and Paralympic career!
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