Vicki guiding a vision impaired athlete during a run
Vicki Fleming was named Volunteer of the Year at the 2019 Blind Sport New Zealand Sport Awards in recognition of the amazing contribution she has made to the blind and low-vision sports community. Vicki uses her athletic ability to help support the sporting achievements of blind and low vision athletes as a volunteer guide in Auckland and the Waikato.
Vicki (left) standing next to Unity Collins whom she is a tandem pilot for. Cycling for only a year, Unity won two silver medals in her first National Championships.
Vicki works with a range of athletes in road and track cycling, and triathlon. Her role as a guide involves working with athletes to understand how she can support them to succeed, explaining that “communication is key” in working together and ensuring that the athlete is comfortable.
Having been a volunteer for many years, Vicki has experienced a number of highlights. Winning three gold medals alongside blind athlete Gillian Walker at the World Masters Games in 2017 was a particular stand-out. Vicki also enjoys having the opportunity to work with people at a range of levels including elite athletes, as well as those who are completely new to the sport.
For Vicki, the best thing about being a volunteer guide is being able to help others achieve their sporting goals, knowing that without the support of a guide, they may not be able to participate in their favourite sport. In the future, Vicki would love to see an increase in the number of accessible events to make it easier for blind and low vision athletes to participate in their chosen sport.
Vicki piloting a tandem bike, whilst Unity rides on the back of the bike.
Visit our website to find out more about the sports available to blind and low vision athletes. If you are a vision impaired athlete and would like to talk to Vicki directly about cycling or triathlon, get in touch with the Blind Sport NZ team and we will connect you in with Vicki.