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Montgomery Parks’ Adaptive Mountain Biking Program expands access to off-road biking
On a warm, muggy and slightly overcast Saturday morning in early August, an excited crowd gathered in Wheaton Regional Park in Wheaton, Maryland, to try out Montgomery Parks’ new collection of adaptive mountain bikes. The group was attending the inaugural event of the department’s free Adaptive Mountain Biking Program, designed exclusively for individuals with disabilities to experience the thrill of mountain biking.
Recreation for All
“I think the most exciting aspect of our program is that it’s a community-based therapeutic recreation initiative designed to meet the diverse needs of people with a wide range of disabilities,” says Jennene Blakely, program access manager at Montgomery Parks. “From my research, only a few parks and recreation agencies offer this type of programming, and we’re proud to have expanded our fleet of bicycles to include adaptive equipment to meet those needs.”
The department purchased two adaptive mountain bikes: a “Lasher,” a recumbent all-terrain handcycle with e-assist, and a “TerraTrike,” an all-terrain foot pedal bike with e-assist. Three certified adaptive mountain bike instructors were on hand to guide and assist riders, and formally trained, experienced mountain biker volunteers rode alongside participants.
“There are people here who are amputees, are autistic, have spinal cord injuries, and physical, intellectual and developmental disabilities,” explains Blakely. “We have such incredible mountain biking opportunities in Montgomery County. We are excited to be able to provide this unique program and adaptive equipment so that all people can access our trails!”
A Fun Way to Get Out and Enjoy Our Parks
Several participants noted that they appreciated the program because it allowed them to access the expensive equipment. “A bike like this is just out of reach for so many people,” observes rider Matthew Nolte. The adaptive bikes will be available for future use at upcoming Montgomery Parks’ Roots to Rocks programs, which aim to increase access to mountain biking through safe and fun mountain biking opportunities.
“We hope to host events throughout the year to introduce people to the sport and then invite people to join us at select locations throughout the year alongside our trained volunteers,” says Blakely.
Montgomery Parks is committed to upholding the integrity of the Americans with Disabilities Act and its mission to offer individuals with disabilities “respect and dignity while engaging in leisure pursuits to enhance their quality of life.” The program also supports Montgomery Parks’ mission to promote physical activity, social connectivity and environmental stewardship.
“It [the program] provides freedom,” says participant Mark Flounlacker. “I use a wheelchair for most of my mobility and that’s not a very useful tool in the woods!”
While there are a few minimum eligibility requirements to participate to ensure a safe experience — such as, riders must be able to hold their heads upright without head or neck support, transfer in and out of the bike independently or with some assistance, and make safe cognitive decisions in a fast-paced environment — the program was a rousing success for those who met the criteria. One participant notes, “It’s a fun way to get out and enjoy our parks. My favorite part is getting off the pavement.”
For the 15 participants and 30-plus volunteers who took to the trails, it was an exhilarating and freeing experience.
Marika Carley is Public Relations and Outreach Specialist at Montgomery Parks.