The third Sunday of every January is when determined Houstonians gather near Minute Maid Park to take part in a grueling 26.2-mile trek that is the Chevron Houston Marathon. This year, the big day will be on January 19, 2020, when over 27,000 locals are expected to turn out in participation. However, around 70 of these athletes will have a much different story to tell than all the rest, simply because they refuse to let their disabilities stop them from being genuine competitors.
One adaptive athlete and Advisory Member for the Houston Chapter of Achilles International is Douglas Dillard, who currently serves as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for DC Partners here in Houston, TX. Despite having a chronic neuromuscular condition that limits the use of his legs, Dillard has never allowed any physical disadvantages to get in the way of being an athlete.
Many Achilles athletes use adaptive equipment to stay competitive in races, and in the case of Dillard, he relies on his upper body strength to operate a handcycle. Having completed more than 20 marathons, he will be crossing the finish line this January in his fifth Houston Marathon, while having also partaken in the nationally renowned Boston Marathon, as well as two go-arounds in the New York City Marathon. He is always up for a charity ride too, being a veteran of four MS150 rides.
Now a prominent leader within the organization, Dillard first discovered Achilles Houston in 2015. He frequently devotes time to mentoring newer members who are looking to stay active in mainstream sports and improve their overall well-being.
As it continues to count on backing from donors and race sponsors, Achilles Houston effectively operates as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. The life-fulfilling opportunities their athletes receive in the form of races and regular workouts are made possible through the generosity of those who contribute.
About Achilles International Houston
If you would like join or support this unique charitable organization, please check out more info on www.achilleshouston.org.
