Posted: 2 July, 2024
Adi first came to Wheels for All in September 2021 when he attended the Eco Festival in Colchester, Essex. Wheels for All hadn’t started sessions in the local area yet but were holding a taster day to showcase inclusive cycling and the need for it in the community.
Adi was a keen cyclist who had previously taken part in challenges such as the ‘LEJOG’ (Lands End to John O’Groats) as well as taking part in road cycling events. After an accident left him with disabilities, he was keen to be able to continue cycling but required a program like Wheels for All to make this possible.
At the Eco Festival, Adi tried a handcycle and loved the experience so when he first visited the newly opened Hub in 2021 he was able to extend on this and try the fully recumbent hand-cycle, a better fit for an experienced cyclist.
Adi continued to attend Wheels for All and as his confidence grew he was able to purchase an upright recumbent cycle of his own that was a foot pedal rather than a hand cycle. This cycle allowed Adi to cycle faster and for longer periods of time – all adding to his newfound confidence in the saddle.
Velo Park Visit
After chatting to our Delivery Co-Ordinator, Jo, at the Hub, who had recently visited the Velo-Park at Lee Valley, Adi expressed his interest in visiting there himself.
In February of ’23, Adi got his chance. British Cycling’s Limitless campaign was launched and they invited potential track cyclists to a free event. Wheels for All were contacted to see if we had any takers. Jo offered to take Adi there herself.
Adi was assisted on a tandem by one of the Limitless volunteers and also had a go on a single track bike too – achieving his dream of cycling at the Velo Park.
Since returning from his trip to the Velodrome, Adi purchased a road bike. His confidence has soared and now whizzes around the track on two wheels!
Tour De Tendring
Adding to his list of achievements, on Sunday, 19th May 2024 Adi took part in the Tour De Tendring. It was organised by Hannah our Regional Manager for the East, in collaboration with Bike Events who put on the ride.
There were many cyclists attending and along with Adi we also had Chris and his support worker from Colchester Wheels for All who cycled the 20 mile route. We adjusted the route and added a few miles to challenge Adi, and together the team cycled a whopping 28 miles at an average pace of 18mph. The day was sunny and warm and a great time was had by all, zipping along the country roads.
“Adi’s journey has been amazing. He is a great example of what you can achieve with Wheels for All. We are all very happy to have been part of his story.” Jo told us.
Congratulations Adi, you really are an inspiration!
