IDAHO — The Challenged Athletes Foundation of Idaho created the state's first all-inclusive bike club, bringing the community together in a unique way.
"Much of our athletes whole past history is being excluded or being in isolation, so we had to move, we had to figure something out for everyone," said CAF-Idaho Director, Jennifer Skeesick.
The all-inclusive bike club is an opportunity for anyone in the community, disabled or not, to come together for the love of sports and exercise.
"It's something that anyone can do," said Skeesick. "It may look a little different, but everyone is doing it together, and they are figuring it out and being creative."
Any skill level is welcome in the club.
"It's great! It gives them an opportunity, especially if they are newly disabled, to meet other people and see what adaptive equipment is out there," said CAF-Idaho Bike Club Leader, Becki Walters. "CAF-Idaho is great at providing adaptive equipment for athletes that want to get back to being active again."
The club rides every second and fourth Saturday of the month on a variety of different routes in both Boise and Ketchum.
"I think the neatest part is we have started to see these relationships forming where we have a challenged athlete that's a little tentative to go out by themselves pairing up with someone else that is experienced," said Skeesick.
They have volunteers riding with the group, so nobody is left out.
"It makes them feel like they are part of the community again, and for the people that don't have a special need, it seems like they are very inspired by the people they meet and the stories of the other riders," said Walters.
To register for the club or for more information, click here.
