Celebrate abilities

Marla Runyan

Ranked as one of the fastest middle distance runners in the USA, Marla Runyan is one who personifies self determination and motivation. At age nine Marla was diagnosed with Stargardt's disease which is the leading cause of blindness in the United States.

Marla has always been keenly involved in sports; competing in gymnastics and soccer until her vision reduced her ability to train safely. Through her life Marla has always pushed herself to excel in sports and is one of the only paralympians to compete in the Olympics. In the 2000 Sidney Olympics, Marla became the eight fastest middle distance runners in the world.

Marla is now legally blind and continues to work hard on her running. She believes her disability does make her competing more difficult, but feels that like all things in life, one needs to train hard and practice to overcome anything.

Marla has a Masters in the education of Deaf Blind children.