While some of you may be battling the elements this week, others are probably using the frigid temps to do some cross-training or get some well-deserved rest! The forecast is calling for additional snow on Friday. In the event the sidewalks and paths are not safe for us to run on, we will open up the opportunity for Achilles athletes and volunteers to still meet at 9am and use the fitness center for an indoor workout. Of course, do not attempt to travel if the roads are not safe, but if you are itching to get out of the house, feel free to join us!
Here at Philly Achilles, we thought we'd begin a series of shining the spotlight on our athletes and volunteers. They offer so much of their time and talent that it only seems right to share with others just how special they are. This week's spotlight is on one of our dedicated athletes,
Bruce Linksy from Philadelphia, PA
Bruce has not allowed his visual impairment to deter him from the activities he enjoys most. Bruce has been involved with the Philadelphia Chapter of Achilles International since its inception in September 2012, along with his faithful regular guide Dave Redash. Outside of Philly Achilles, Bruce is quite active in other sports within the community. He participates in rowing through the Philadelphia Adaptive Sports program, where he also enjoys rock climbing, tandem biking, and kayaking.
Aside from the all the physical activities that Bruce is involved in, he still finds time to be of service to others. He is a puppy raiser for The Seeing Eye Puppy. He has a "green thumb" working with the Gardening program through Associated Services for the Blind, and also serves as a dog walker for the National Greyhound Adoption Program.
Bruce finds the social aspect to be most rewarding part of Philly Achilles. Bruce's enthusiastic and valuable advice for other disabled athletes who are apprehensive about working out is, "Try small to get started!" We would like to congratulate Bruce on running the Disney Half Marathon on January 12, 2013. Training with Achilles, this was his first half and he completed it with a strong finish time of 2:16:21. Congratulations to Bruce on a job well done!
If you would like to get to know Bruce and our other awesome Achilles team members, please come out and join us for a workout on Saturday mornings at 9:00 am at 1601 Chestnut Street. If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Melissa Wilcox at
phillyachilles@yahoo.com 
