Mark Thompson is a dad, a grandfather, a music, beer and culture enthusiast, a swimmer, a cyclist, a runner, a triathlete, and a paddler (canoeing), and he is visually impaired. He is just a really cool person too, and we are so fortunate to have met him. Mark not only participates in all of these activities, he always desires to give back to Para Guide and support other athletes and the non-profit in a multitude of ways.
How did you get involved with Para Guide?
My wife and I (we’re both visually impaired) met Shannon and Paul at the Triple C Brewery, they were recruiting runners to be sighted guides. We learned that Shannon is a kayaker and I was training for the 2017 MR340 paddling race at the time. We began participating in various running, biking and even swimming activities with Para-Guide after that.
Share a memorable experience or event with Team Para Guide:
Competing in the 2018 Sunbelt Swim Meet. There were several events where I didn't come in last!
What are your goals for 2019?
Run a 5k in under 30 minutes, and complete the MR340 (340-milecanoe/kayak race) again. (Update: Mark crushed his 5k goal earlier this year at the Run Jen Run 5k on March 9th and continues to set new PRs).