Mr. Dot’s Vision: A Blind Runner’s Tech-Powered Marathon Journey

Clarke Reynolds, a blind runner, is set to tackle a marathon with tech that lets sighted individuals experience his perspective in real-time, providing guidance as he navigates the course.

The Runner’s Background

By day, Reynolds is a creator who transforms braille into artistic expressions to heighten awareness of visual impairment. However, he views running as an additional platform to share his message. His first marathon was completed with a physical guide, but this time, he’s embracing a different approach.

“I’m really excited to do this,” he said. “If you had told me 13 years ago that I’d be an ambassador for a major charity and I’d be inspiring visually impaired children around the world, I’d never have believed you.”

Innovative Technology in Action

Reynolds, based in Havant, will run the Brighton Marathon later this month, guided by a global network of virtual volunteers through the Be My Eyes app. This tech enables sighted users to see what he sees via the glasses’ camera and offer real-time direction. Unlike the London Marathon, where he relied on a tethered guide, the new method involves a worldwide community.

“They tell me if there’s a bin or there’s a parked car through the glasses – but the majority of the time we’re just discussing, what is sight loss?”

The app typically assists with everyday tasks, such as helping someone locate a TV remote button. It’s unexpected when volunteers connect with Reynolds mid-run. “They probably think, ‘oh my god, this is a bit strange’,” he remarked.

Training and Support

Reynolds trains by running laps of a 0.7-mile crescent route he knows intimately. He has garnered over 100 supporters, including individuals from Jordan. The charity Fight for Sight, which he represents, is coordinating the volunteer network with the app’s developers. A backup guide runner will also be on hand in case of technical issues.

Reynolds has been visually impaired in his right eye since age six, but 13 years ago he noticed a shadow in his left eye. “I went to the hospital and they sat me down and said, ‘Mr. Reynolds, do you drive?'” he recalled. “I said yes, and they said, ‘hand over your licence, you’re going blind.’ And that’s how you were told.”

His current vision is described as “being underwater” – allowing him to discern shapes, shadows, and limited color. Despite this, he continues to craft visual art using braille, such as a replica of Nirvana’s iconic “Nevermind” album cover.