We are thrilled to announce our plans to establish a new accessible cycling program in our organization. This initiative focuses on two pillars: physical activity and community building. We anticipate our efforts being an initial step in growing the handcycling infrastructure in our province, and hopefully inspiring others to pursue handcycling as a sport. MWSA’s focus will be on recreational and introductory programming in the area of handcycling.
MWSA has purchased three introductory handcycles which will become available to community members in the coming weeks. As public health restrictions begin to lift, we plan to host bi-weekly community rides utilizing the closed cycling roads within the city. Prairie Velo has graciously offered to be the starting point for these rides, and will assist with loaning our handcycles if demand allows for it. No matter how you move, we would love to have you participate in these group rides. Handcycles, three wheeled bikes, motorized wheelchairs, e-bikes, or any other means of moving are all welcomed to participate. Our community can only be stronger when we all can enjoy events together.
In the winter, we will transfer to an online virtual program where twelve cycle trainers will be available to community members to have at home. Participants will be able to borrow a handcycle from MWSA in order to participate in these sessions. By connecting online, we will eliminate some of the challenges with transporting equipment, especially in the winter months where snow presents an additional challenge. Again, this program will continue to focus on the two pillars: physical activity and building community. If you wish to be active in another way, such as a table-top handcycle or a wheelchair roller, you are also welcomed to participate in our virtual program.
We recognize these are our tentative plans as the pandemic has been unpredictable throughout the past year. However, we are excited to hit the road with our new cycling program once our public health situation allows for it. Be sure to visit our website periodically for announcements related to this new program.
If you have any questions or wish to be notified with updates on the cycling program, please email our office at office (at) mwsa.ca. We look forward to seeing everyone out cycling!
