Story originally printed in the La Crosse Tribune or online at www.lacrossetribune.com
Published - Tuesday, May 13, 2008
YWCA handcycling clinic makes biking possible for some
Every kid should have the chance to ride a bike.
YWCA Youth Activities Director Lisa Mathson hopes a handcycling clinic will make that a reality.
Youth who are challenged by a physical disability will be given the opportunity to participate in the Adaptive Physical Recreation Opportunities YWCA Handcycling Clinic on Sunday at Riverside Park by using specialized bikes called handcycles. The handcycle is propelled and steered using the upper body, eliminating the need for balance.
The YWCA has four of them for use at the clinic. They also can be loaned out to individuals, free of charge, throughout the summer, she said.
Mathson is hoping the event will make a big difference for those previously unable to ride a bike. And, although the event attracts a lot of children, she said everyone is welcome to try out the cycles.
It’s certainly made a difference for 12-year-old Ammie Jergenson. The La Crescent, Minn., sixth-grader has cerebral palsy. Until she started handcycling three years ago, she was unable to enjoy a bike ride.
That’s great news for her mom, Sue, who said a friend tipped them off to the clinic.
“I tried to teach Ammie to ride a bicycle,” Sue said. “It was impossible. This gives her the freedom to ride like other kids. And you can’t fall off.”
It’s great news for her twin sister, Annie, too. Before Ammie got involved with handcycling, the sisters couldn’t ride together. Now they can ride either the handcycle or the three-wheel pedal bike.
“It’s easier than riding a normal bike,” Annie said.
While Ammie started with the handcycle, she rapidly progressed to the three-wheel pedal bicycle the family calls “The Harley.” She may need a push to get started, she said, but once she’s on it, the three wheels help her balance.
“It’s just a lot of fun, and there’s no need to be scared,” Ammie said.
If You Go
WHAT: Handcycling clinic
WHEN: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday
WHERE: Riverside Park
SPONSOR: YWCA A-PRO (Adaptive Physical Recreation Opportunities). The YWCA has four handcycles available for use at the clinic, and they will be available for loan throughout the summer and fall. All equipment may be checked out for use at home with family and friends free of charge on a weekly basis by calling Lisa Mathson at (608) 781-2783 ext. 5.
Ryan Stotts can be reached at (608) 791-8446 or ryan.stotts@lee.net.
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