The Cardiff charity unveiled a purpose-built baton which be fitted to any adapted sports equipment
A CARDIFF charity which specialises in accessible cycling hosted the launch of a UK-wide relay race for inclusive sports.
The launch event for Relay Your Way, a 2,500km multi-sport route from Glasgow to Windsor, was hosted by Pedal Power at the charity’s Bute Park base on Saturday.
The event included the unveiling of a purpose-built baton, which is deisgned to be able to fit multiple types of accessible sports equipment for the relay, which passes through Cardiff on Monday, June 23.
Relay Your Way is organised by Camarthen-based Cerebra, a charity which helps children with neurological conditions to get involved in sports. Cerebra creates specially-adapted equipment for multiple sports, which mirrors what Pedal Power does with bikes.
“We are really excited to be a part of it all,” said Gabe Taylor, Pedal Power’s Engagement Officer.
“Cerebra as a charity aligns really well with our goals, and it makes more potential users of Pedal Power aware of us.
“It gives people the opportunity to come and try our bikes, which is really exciting.”
The relay run over 33 days and includes stages ranging from a 200-metre walk to an 80-kilometre cycling challenge.
As it travels through the UK it will offer people the chance to try out different accessible sports, with specialist equipment for people with disabilities.
In Cardiff, there will be white water rafting with an adaptive raft at Cardiff International White Water, while Pedal Power will also be involved.
Steven Bourque, who adapts bikes for Pedal Power, said: “We do assessments for people based on what their abilities are and what their needs are. So, we put clips or footplates on if they need it, or belts and harnesses.
“We have something like 230 cycles, so we have a lot of different options for everyone. Some of them are very specific and others are more accessible for everybody.”
One of the adaptions is a bike with space for a wheelchair on front.
“It gives them a chance to feel the wind in their hair, they all come back with great cheesy smiles,” said Craig Morris, bike hire operative at Pedal Power.
“It creates a great sense of community,”
The purpose-built baton, which was unveiled at the event, was created by Cerebra’s innovation team, which makes bespoke products to help children with neurological conditions.
The baton can be adapted to be carried by wheelchair users, adapted surfers and frame runners, as well as being fitted with a GPS tracker to allow supporters to track the relay from home.
“We have found creative solutions to help thousands of children interact with the world around them,” said Dr Ross Head, the Cerebra Innovation Centre lead.
“Whether it’s an adapted bike, a paddle board or a device to help a child throw a ball for their dog, each product has a real impact on a child’s life.”
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“We are really excited to be doing something that celebrates sport and accessibility, it is a real expression of joy and adventure,” said James Hay, Business Development Manager at Cerebra.
This event was sponsored by Irwin Mitchell, a law firm that specialises in supporting children with brain injuries, disabilities, and their families.
“It is just nice to be here. I have cerebral palsy, so being here and being involved representing the firm, but also seeing children and families engaging and being able to participate is really lovely,” said James Cowling of Irwin Mitchell.
“The personal challenge and joy of participating should be available to every child, and this relay is a powerful statement that no one should be left out,” said Jess Camburn-Rahmani, CEO at Cerebra.
“But this is more than just a relay. It’s a nationwide movement for inclusion, change, and celebration.
“Whether you take part, cheer from the sidelines, or donate, you’ll be helping to create a world where all young people are fully included, supported and celebrated.”
- To be a part of this relay, click here.
