USABA Disabled Cycling Camp
Blind and Physically Disabled Riders Eligible for Developmental Camp
Jul 27, 2009
The United States Association of Blind Athletes (USABA), will host “Learn to Race,” a developmental cycling camp for riders with disabilities, at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs.
U.S. Hand Cycling, Disabled Sports USA, and U.S. Paralympics are partners for the USABA event, which runs from September 12-19, 2009.
The week-long camp is open to cyclists with physical disabilities ages 16 and up. Athletes will learn safe riding techniques, bike-handling skills, road racing strategies, and track (velodrome) riding instruction.
Disabilities Eligible for USABA’s Learn to Race Developmental Cycling Camp
- Blindness and visual impairment (using sighted pilots riding tandem bikes)
- Lower-body mobility impairments (using hand cycles)
- Cerebral palsy or head injury (use both standard bikes and tricycles)
- Amputees (using either single bikes or hand cycles).
A special invitation is extended to US veterans and active duty service members who sustained disabilities serving in Iraq or Afghanistan.
Purpose of USABA’s Learn to Race Developmental Cycling Camp
One purpose of the camp is to develop competitive cyclists and help them network with their local riding community and provide a schedule of racing opportunities. But the camp’s main goal, says coordinator Pam Fernandes, is to foster a passion for riding and staying physically fit. “After camp, some participants will become recreational riders while others will strive to become Paralympians,” says Fernandes, a three-time Paralympic medalist in cycling. “No matter which road athletes choose, the camp will open new opportunities.”
Riders will mount their bikes twice a day to practice skill drills and safe riding techniques and compete in race simulations. There will also be evening lectures. Camp staff will include certified cycling coaches, a certified mechanic, and guest speakers from a variety of sports related fields. Paralympic cyclists may join a ride or share their competitive experiences with attendees.
The US Olympic Training Center will provide food, housing, and transportation to and from Colorado Springs Airport. Athletes are responsible for their own travel arrangements and for a nominal camp fee (not to exceed $315) that varies based on how much financial support an athlete receives.
Riders are asked to bring their own bikes and gear. Tandem riders are encouraged to bring their own pilots, though, if needed, the USABA will assist in finding partners for the visually impaired.
Applications are available on the USABA website. The deadline is Monday, August 10, 2009. Riders will be notified of acceptance by Wednesday, August 12th. Call Pam Fernandes (781.449.9563) for information.
About the USABA
The United States Association of Blind Athletes (USABA) enhances the lives of blind and visually impaired people by providing the opportunity for participation in sports and physical activity. Additional funding to the camp for military applicants is available through USABA’s Mission Vision program.
USABA’s Learn to Race cycling camp fits with its mission of developing elite athletes for Paralympic competition, but like many accessible recreation programs, is flexible enough to accommodate all levels of experience and ability.
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