Over the past weekend, Ontario Cycling held a para-cycling camp in Hawkesbury, ON involving 9 athletes and 3 coaches. The athletes, all handcyclists, had a variety of experiences ranging from first time cyclists to those competing at the highest international levels. Coaches Murray Solem and Julia Farell with support for local coach Julie Hutsebaut helped create a comprehensive 2-day camp featuring skills work with focus on cornering, pace line riding, and time trial efforts. For some athletes, the camp served as preparation for the upcoming Canadian Para-Road Championships, which will see Team Ontario well represented. For others, the camp helped to build confidence and develop the fundamentals of para-cycling. Most importantly, the camp provided an opportunity for athletes and coaches to come together as a community – getting a chance to ride as a group, enjoy some social activities, and help grow the pool of para-cyclists in Ontario.
A thank you to Joey and Vanessa Desjardins for the support during the camp. Joey, who had just returned from representing Canada at the World Cups in Europe, was instrumental in helping plan training routes and share his year’s of experience with aspiring athletes. Vanessa and Joey also hosted everyone for lunch at their home, helping showcase the support within the paracycling community.
Up next for our para-cycling athletes will be Canadian Para-Road Championships at the end of June, Ontario ITT Championships in July, and Ontario Summer Games in August. More camps are also being planned and will be announced soon.
Anyone interested in getting involved in para-cycling is asked to reach out to Michael Suraci at [email protected]
