Running a marathon is a significant achievement for anyone, but for 52-year-old Sarah Stephenson-Hunter, it represents much more than just crossing the finish line.
As a blind transgender woman, she is determined to challenge societal norms, push physical and mental boundaries, and serve as a role model for those who may not have had the representation they needed while growing up.
Her journey to the London Marathon is not just about endurance and perseverance—it is about breaking barriers and inspiring others to believe in themselves, no matter the obstacles they face.
Sarah’s journey into running began approximately seven years ago when she participated in The Royal Parks Half Marathon with the assistance of a guide runner. The experience ignited a passion in her, leading her to take on multiple 10km runs and half marathons.
However, the idea of completing a full marathon seemed daunting, not because of her physical capability, but due to the challenge of finding a dedicated guide runner. As someone who navigates life with both blindness and her identity as a transgender woman, Sarah has encountered numerous obstacles, but her determination to overcome them is unwavering.
Finding a Guide Runner Through an Unlikely Encounter
One of the biggest challenges Sarah faced in her marathon journey was finding a guide runner who could commit to training and running alongside her. This struggle continued until an unexpected encounter at Pride London 2023 changed everything.
It was there that Sarah met 26-year-old writer Imy Brighty-Potts, a fellow member of the LGBTQ+ community. Their conversation quickly turned to running, and within ten minutes of knowing each other, Imy spontaneously offered to be Sarah’s guide for the London Marathon.
Their bond has since grown stronger through shared training experiences. They started running together at Parkrun events and even traveled to Mexico for a hiking adventure in October 2024.
Their dedication to training despite living 80 miles apart showcases the depth of their commitment to this journey. They make it a point to train together once a week, traveling to each other’s locations and using an orange tether to stay connected while running.
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Despite having no formal training as a guide runner, Imy has proven to be the perfect partner for Sarah. Her patience and ability to adapt to Sarah’s needs have made a significant impact on their progress.
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Sarah emphasizes that the key to guiding a blind runner is patience and awareness of obstacles, and Imy has excelled in both areas. Their partnership is built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared goal of making a difference.
Overcoming Challenges and Redefining Preparation
Preparing for a marathon is a rigorous process that requires physical training, mental resilience, and a well-structured plan. However, Sarah acknowledges that her marathon preparation differs from the conventional approach.
Due to her visual impairment, certain training methods and techniques are not accessible to her. Yet, she refuses to let these limitations define her experience.
Sarah believes that the biggest hurdle she faces is not physical but attitudinal. Society often underestimates the capabilities of disabled individuals, and she wants to challenge these perceptions.
By taking part in the London Marathon, she aims to demonstrate that determination and adaptability can make anything possible. Her story is not just about personal triumph but also about shifting societal attitudes toward inclusivity and accessibility in sports.
Training alongside Imy has been an invaluable experience, and communication plays a crucial role in their progress. They have developed a rhythm where they encourage each other, sing together during runs, and openly discuss what is working and what isn’t. Their ability to maintain positivity and support each other’s growth makes them a formidable duo.
Sarah is also aware that completing the marathon will be both a physical and emotional journey. Throughout the run, she will be thinking of her late mother, who passed away from breast cancer in December 2020. Her mother was one of her strongest supporters, and honoring her memory through this achievement adds even more significance to the event.
Running for a Cause: Supporting the LGBTQ+ Community
Beyond personal fulfillment, Sarah and Imy are running to support a cause close to their hearts. They are fundraising for Stonewall, a prominent LGBTQ+ rights charity that has played a significant role in advocating for equality.
For Sarah, Stonewall’s work has been instrumental in her journey as a transgender woman. When she came out in 2013, she relied on their resources to navigate the challenges of transitioning.
By raising funds for Stonewall, she hopes to contribute to the organization’s efforts in raising awareness, changing attitudes, and providing support to the LGBTQ+ community.
Imy shares Sarah’s passion for this cause. As a lesbian, she believes it is vital to reinforce the idea that the LGBTQ+ community is united. Her statement, “There is no LGB without the T,” highlights the importance of solidarity within the community.
Their participation in the London Marathon is not just an individual achievement but a powerful statement about representation, inclusion, and mutual support.
Their journey is a testament to the impact that visibility and representation can have on individuals struggling with their identities. Sarah hopes that by sharing her story and taking on this challenge, she can inspire other transgender women and girls to pursue their dreams, regardless of societal barriers. If their efforts can make even one person feel seen, valued, and capable, they will consider their mission a success.
On April 27, the duo will take to the streets of London, ready to embrace the energy of the marathon. They joke that their post-run celebration will include a well-deserved pint, but beyond the celebration lies a deeper sense of accomplishment.
For Sarah, completing the marathon will symbolize resilience, self-acceptance, and the importance of community. Imy echoes this sentiment, expressing how special it will be to cross the finish line together and fulfill the promise they made on the day they met.
Sarah Stephenson-Hunter’s journey to the London Marathon is a story of perseverance, friendship, and advocacy. She is not just running for herself; she is running for every blind individual who has been told they cannot, for every transgender person who has struggled with acceptance, and for everyone who needs a reminder that they are capable of achieving greatness.
Through her determination, Sarah is setting an example for future generations, proving that obstacles are meant to be overcome and that true strength comes from within.
As race day approaches, Sarah and Imy stand as a beacon of inspiration, showing the world that no challenge is insurmountable when faced with courage, determination, and the unwavering support of a friend.