Synchronising Speed: James Ledger & Greg Kelly’s Journey Through Adversity

In June, when we spoke, they were on a mission to qualify for the Paris Paralympics. Although they missed out this year, their story of perseverance and teamwork deserves to be shared. While we often celebrate those who make it to the Games, we forget about the countless athletes who fall just short, despite years of dedication and sacrifice.

Embrace Adversity Through the Joy of Running

Born with bilateral coloboma and nystagmus, James shares how sport has changed his relationship with his disability, while Greg, a highly successful athlete in his own right, discusses what drew him to experience guide running.

James: “Sport was my way to fit in and not be defined by my disability. I played football until I was 16 but didn’t enjoy it. Seeing me on the bench and falling into an underconfident shell of myself, my dad asked me what I wanted to do, and I knew I wanted to be fast. (…) Athletics gave me the freedom to perform without focusing on my disability, allowing me to control my performance and be my best self.”

Greg: “I was always the fast kid and started athletics after school sports days. I had success with Scottish titles, then moved to Loughborough to do a master’s degree and focus on elite training sprints. At Loughborough, I met other visually impaired athletes, which gave me exposure and awareness of parasport. Guide running with James introduced me to a new level of competition and teamwork. I was inspired by pairings like Libby Clegg and her guide runner and by James’ ambition.”
 

Building Trust & Teamwork in Guide Running

Guide running requires precise timing and communication. Greg explains, “We’re tethered by two handles just 10 cm apart. My role is to ensure James is warmed up, ready to perform, and safe.”

James: “Beyond speed, I look for a guide who enjoys the process with me. We’re literally tied together; my full trust goes into Greg. I don’t think there are many other sports like that.”

Navigating Challenges and Setbacks

They trained hard to pass the intense qualification process for the Paris Games.  

James: "Early races when things didn’t click were tough, but persistence and belief kept us going."

Greg: "Logistically, it’s been a tough journey—balancing training and races across Europe. But planning and pushing forward were key."

Greg and James pour their hearts into their craft, yet just miss the final qualification. For James, after 15 years of dedication to the sport, qualifying for the Games would have been the culmination of a lifelong dream, and sharing that achievement with Greg made the prospect even more meaningful. Though they didn’t make it, their journey embodies the perseverance and resilience that define sport.

Despite not reaching Paris 2024, James and Greg have had remarkable achievements:

James: "Representing Wales at the Commonwealth Games was a proud moment, and the energy at the London Diamond League was unforgettable."

Greg: "Winning the Scottish Champs and setting records in Europe were standout moments. The support from fans made it all worth it."

Making a Difference Beyond Training & Sports

James continues to help other athletes through Disability Sport Wales, while Greg explores coaching, supported by add-victor.

James: "I work part-time for Disability Sport Wales, helping visually impaired athletes find their potential. It’s rewarding to make a difference in their lives."

Greg: "I took a career gap from audit at PwC to focus on competing and am now working on my coaching qualifications, planning for life beyond competitive sport."

Advice for Aspiring Athletes:

Greg: " Start. The hardest part is always just starting. Universities have great athletics clubs, whether to take the sport seriously or more as an enjoyable way to meet people. "

Conclusion

Speaking with James and Greg has been a privilege. Their journey, marked by resilience and a profound sense of teamwork, continues to inspire. While stories like theirs often remain in the shadows, their dedication and perseverance are just as significant as any medal. Every step they've taken deserves recognition and celebration. Though their dream didn’t materialise this time, we celebrate their remarkable spirit and wish them every success in the future.

Evie Sharp