Some stories remind us exactly why we do what we do. The story of Taylor Talbot, a para-triathlete from the University of Arizona, is one of them.
Taylor, who is legally blind, is blazing trails in the world of para-triathlon—a sport that demands strength, focus, and unshakable determination. But for her, it’s about more than medals or finish lines. It’s about redefining what vision truly means.
Seeing Beyond Sight
As Taylor shared in a recent KGUN9 feature, she’s been running since high school, when she discovered the freedom that comes from movement. Today, she trains, competes, and inspires others while pursuing her degree at the University of Arizona—the same campus where A Race Against Blindness founders Steve and Kristina Johnston once studied.
Her story resonates deeply with us—not only as fellow Wildcats, but as parents, athletes, and advocates for those living with vision loss.
What Makes Taylor’s Journey So Remarkable
In triathlon, athletes swim, bike, and run back-to-back, testing every ounce of endurance and focus they have. For para-athletes like Taylor, that challenge expands beyond the physical. Competing safely requires trust, teamwork, and adaptability.
Taylor trains and races with a guide athlete, connected by a tether during the swim and run and sharing a tandem bike on the cycling leg. Every race is a synchronized partnership that depends on communication and mutual belief—a perfect metaphor for how those in the vision-loss community move through the world.
Why Her Story Matters
At A Race Against Blindness, we often say that blindness doesn’t define anyone’s limits—it just redefines their path. Taylor is living proof. Her achievements shine a light on what’s possible when determination meets support and opportunity.
Her journey also highlights how sports can be a powerful form of advocacy. Every time she competes, she raises awareness about blindness, inclusion, and the potential that exists in every person—no matter how much or how little they see.
A Personal Connection
For our co-founder Kristina, this story hits close to home. As a triathlete herself—having completed multiple IRONMAN 70.3 and full IRONMAN races—and a registered Achilles guide for athletes with disabilities, she knows the beauty and grit behind this sport. Seeing someone like Taylor excel isn’t just inspiring; it’s affirming.
Taylor reminds all of us that the goal isn’t just to cross the finish line—it’s to keep pushing forward, even when the path ahead looks uncertain.
Celebrating Champions of Courage
Taylor’s drive mirrors the spirit that fuels our mission at A Race Against Blindness: to empower, to raise awareness, and to move faster toward treatments that preserve vision and possibility.
We may not know her personally, but we couldn’t be prouder of what she’s doing—for herself, for her sport, and for the blindness community as a whole.
Because redefining vision isn’t just about how we see the world—it’s about how we live in it.
Source: KGUN9 News: How Tucson’s Taylor Talbot is Redefining Vision in Para-Triathlon
