Blind adventurer to host Dinner in the Dark

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The Institute for the Blind was established in 1881 to cater for the all-inclusive needs of visually impaired persons and additional disabilities through the provision of accommodation, support services, skills training, employment, education and career development opportunities.

"The Dinner in the Dark concept is an 'eye-opening' experience that dares to challenge your senses and creates an awareness of the living environment of a visually impaired person. The experience will leave you in awe of blind persons' capabilities and with a new sense of appreciation for the gift of sight that we so often take for granted," says Irene de Bod of the Institute for the Blind.

Extreme adventures

Wagner participates in extreme adventures to market the abilities of those living with disabilities and to raise funds for the Institute for The Blind. Some of his achievements include breaking the World Blind Land speed record in 2009, completing the Absa Cape Epic in 2011, conquering the Antarctica Marathon last year and successfully completing the 2015 Discovery World Triathlon Cape Town.

"People often ask me what it is like to be blind," says Wagner. "It's quite difficult for me to explain as I've been blind since birth. The only reality I know! One of the most amazing ways to enter and experience the world of the blind is to attend a dinner in total darkness, where you have to pour your own wine, find the food on your plate and chat to people you can't see. It's a true eye-opener and a life changing event you'll remember for years to come."

From 11 to 13 September, Wagner will be at it again when he takes on the challenge of the UCI Para-cycling Road World Cup in Pietermaritzburg.