FOR some it is the perfect opportunity to take in Southampton’s best-loved landmarks.
But Martin Ball is setting his sights on a completely different journey.
The 28-year-old from Ocean Village is gearing up to run the ABP Southampton Half Marathon blindfolded tomorrow.
Martin, a civil servant, is taking up the challenge in aid of two charities after being touched by their work in helping blind people.
He will be running alongside friend Nick Yates, with the pair both holding a rope and his pal shouting directions at him.
Martin, who has previously run a full marathon, was inspired by seeing a visually impaired runner competing in Southampton Park Run.
He said: “I’ve always thought that life would be a struggle without sight and I would miss out on so many things I enjoy. So I thought I would do something different to help others.
“It is terrifying, first of all because you are handing over all control to the person you are running with.
“It’s scary because everyday sounds around you become very intense as you don’t know where they are coming from.
“It’s going to be very noisy on the race day and my senses might get overwhelmed.
“But I know Southampton very well so I will have a good mental picture in my head.”
His wife Zoe, 29, is also taking part and he is fundraising for British Blind Sport and the Sightsavers charities.
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