About Achilles NZ
Our Global Mission
Achilles International is a worldwide organisation dedicated to empowering people of all ages and abilities to participate in mainstream athletics. Our mission is to promote personal achievement, enhance self-esteem, and break down barriers.
Our Inspiring Origins
In 1976, Dick Traum, an above-knee amputee from New York, embarked on a life-changing journey. Approaching middle age and feeling out of shape, he joined a local YMCA and began running. Within a year, Dick became the first amputee to complete the New York City Marathon, an experience that profoundly boosted his sense of accomplishment and self-confidence.
Inspired by his own transformation, Dick founded the Achilles Track Club (now Achilles International) in 1983, aiming to provide similar opportunities to others with disabilities.
Achilles in Aotearoa New Zealand
Our New Zealand journey began in 1985 when Brian Froggatt, an above-knee amputee from Dargaville, became the first Kiwi athlete with a disability to participate in the New York Marathon with Achilles Track Club.
In 1993, John Riley, another above-knee amputee, along with his coach Peter Loft, both from Whangarei, completed the New York Marathon. Inspired by their experience, they established Achilles Track Club New Zealand (Achilles NZ) in Auckland, with support from Craig Jessop, Myles Flynn, Gina Flynn, and Yvonne Loft.
Today, Achilles NZ continues to grow, offering opportunities for New Zealanders with disabilities to participate alongside able-bodied athletes in various events, including:
Local events: Round the Bays, Taupo Half Marathon, Wellington Marathon
International events: New York Marathon
Our Values
At Achilles NZ, we are guided by our core values:
Fairness
Respect
Excellence
Leadership
Accountability
Transparency
Honesty
Achilles NZ is a registered charitable organisation with the Charities Commission (Registration Number: CC50645).
We encourage everyone to join Achilles NZ, or you can support us with a donation.