This summer Grampian Inclusive Cycling Bothies (GICB), in partnership with Aberdeenshire Clubsport and Thrive Ballater, held some offroad adaptive cycling sessions on the trails in and around Ballater, Aberdeenshire. These sessions were led by Able2Adventure and Access Mhor Cairngorms, who also provided the adaptive bikes.
Many of the riders taking part had previously attended the GICB sessions in Peterhead and Alford and were keen to try some off-road cycling. Some participants were able to rediscover their love of off-road cycling, while others were able to discover it for the first time. The GICB sessions have enabled them all to enjoy cycling, breaking down barriers and creating new opportunities. With the popularity of offroad adaptive cycling, it is hoped these sessions will be set up on a permanent basis in the future.
Speaking about the sessions, Fiona Smith, Grampian Inclusive Cycling Bothies (GICB) – Project Activator, told us ‘We have been so lucky to secure funding from Aberdeenshire Club Sport and Thrive Ballater to run a series of inclusive off road sessions from Ballater. It has been great to enable families to ride together and cyclists to get out and enjoy trail cycling using the adapted bikes. Running these sessions has shown that there is significant interest in inclusive offroad riding and we are working towards developing a permanent hub in Ballater.’
Grampian Inclusive Cycling Bothies is a Limitless Champion Club. The Limitless programme is dedicated to making cycling an inclusive and accessible activity for everyone. For more information on Limitless and how to get involved as a rider or club please visit: Introducing Limitless