The 42nd Authentic Athens Marathon took place, November 9, 2025, with over 70,000 people. Although specific numbers for disabled participants were unavailable it would seem that there was only one blind marathon winner – Richard Simpson and his guide Theo.
It took place under a changeable sky, upon a dual carriageway (closed from traffic) and marked by a blue line, from marathon to the Stadium in Athens (26.2miles). A time limit of 8 hours was allocated for medal qualifiers. Evidently, although this is a standard length in some African marathons it is shortened to 4 hours to create a more competitive event.
Unlike most blind runners Richard wasn’t tethered to Theo as he felt confident enough using his white cane and remaining sight (out of only one eye) yet, did need a sighted guide for some aspects of safety. Theo was able to warn Richard of the many cables taped to the surface which monitored each participant, frequent appearances of pot holes, uneven surfaces,water stations and ensuring he was safe when runners were coming too close. Richard explained how some participants insisted on pushing between them or barging past him oblivious of Richard’s white cane much to the annoyance of other runners. The two men first met (April 2023)whilst completing the 500 miles Camino de Santiago which is a network of ancient pilgrimage routes that stretch across Europe, all leading to the shrine of the apostle Saint James in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in north-western Spain.
Richard confessed that although he was used to long distance walking,he found the first stage very demanding due to the gradual incline. The Athens Marathon’s challenging Hill begins around the 18 km mark and continues until approximately the 31 km mark, covering a distance of about 13 km. During this section, runners ascend approximately 210 meters, reaching a peak elevation of 247 meters above sea level. Richard added once accomplished he was ecstatic and they were able to continue downhill at a brisk pace for the last 10miles into the Stadium. With an average of 4miles an hour and only two calls of nature breaks, they achieved this magnificent challenge, in around 7 hours. Throughout the marathon Richard and Theo received so much encouragement from fellow participants,crowds lining the route and a standing ovation once they entered the stadium.
Over the past year, Richard has been involved in various activities, not only to improve his over -all fitness, but also his stamina. He has walked alongside the Thames Pathway (starting in Greenwich and reaching Buckinghamshire), several Park Runs and a strict gym regime. He said after completing the marathon “I have never felt better and am looking forward to my next challenge!”
On behalf of Eye Matter we would like to sincerely thank Richard for his time, money and determination put into this amazing achievement. We have nearly raised £2000 so please continue to dig deep and show your appreciation to Richard’s achievement as the one an only blind man to conquer the 2025 Athens Marathon.