Paracycling:
Para-cycling is part of the Paralympic Programme, and it is governed by UCI (the Union Cycliste Internationale). The essence of Para-cycling is the same as in other Olympic Competitions, where high performance athletes compete against other nations in their category. Para-cycling in Ireland is governed by Cycling Ireland, in affiliation with Paralympics Ireland.
Any one wishing to try or find out more about paracycling contact:
Phelim Lynch 0834477933 phelim.lynch7@gmail.com
Declan Slevin 0872500827 declanslevin@hotmail.com
Para-cycling is cycling for people with disabilities. This cycling discipline first came about in the 1980s, initially focusing on visually impaired riders, who competed on a tandem. The first appearance of Para-cycling in the Paralympic Games was in 1984, which was co-hosted by New York and Stoke Mandeville in England, and this first event only included road races for people with Cerebral Palsy. By 1996 the sport had evolved significantly, with track cycling included, along with each type of disability being classified into specific functional categories. Handcycling was included in the Sydney Programme of racing in 2000, as an exhibition event.
Qualification has evolved with the sport, with medical and functional criteria being included to even the playing field. Today the competition rules run accordingly with the functional ability of each participant.
While Para-cycling has its rules determined by the UCI, it is the IPC (International Paralympic Committee) who are responsible for its organisation.
Here’s a link to a charity called Charlotte’s Tandems who lend people tandem bikes free of charge to help them get to started in tandem racing.
