Gold medallist says RideLondon makes him feel “part of society”
London 2012 Paralympic gold medallist Walter Ablinger says the integration of disabled cyclists alongside non-disabled cyclists at Prudential RideLondon allows him to feel “part of society”.
RideLondon’s 100,000 participants make it the largest festival of cycling in the world and the 2015 edition takes place this weekend.
The Austrian’s victory in the event’s handcycle competition last year was seen by thousands of people.
London’s roads are closed to traffic for a festival that sees disabled and non-disabled athletes enjoy an equal share of the spotlight with crowds lining the streets.
“Disability can happen to anyone and events like RideLondon enable disabled athletes to prove we can be efficient and feel part of society,” Ablinger said.
Along with handcycles, recumbent bicycles are being accommodated at the event this year for the first time.
With dozens of tandems registered alongside the recumbents for Ride London’s “Free Cycle”, the centrepiece component fully integrates disabled and non-disabled amateur cyclists.
“I’ve never seen a better integrated event,” Ablinger added.
“Disabled sport is competitive and RideLondon’s format enables us to be appreciated just as we are.”
