Nearly two thousand disabled athletes ran, walked, rolled and relayed today during the first annual Achilles Marathon, held in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park. The 26.2-mile race was the first to be hosted by the disabled community: a fact that was noted with much pride by many participants.

The Achilles Marathon also served as a fundraising event for local and national non-profits, as almost every marathoner, and marathon team, raised money for their choice of a worthy organization. Together, all participants raised more than $100,000 for charities. Achilles is partnered with The United Way, and 100% of the proceeds went to those non-profits. Monies raised will be tallied this week. The international event boasted teams from Argentina, Bhutan, Bosnia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Colombia, Ecuador, Germany, Jamaica, Poland, Russia, Slovakia, South Africa, United Kingdom, Lebanon and Vietnam. Founding sponsors of the race are Cushman & Wakefield, The United Way, and Continuum Health Partners.

Prizes were given out for first and second places in various divisions, with an emphasis on those with disabilities. Runners won $1000 cash for first, or Continental airline tickets for second, place finish.