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Blind Riders Conquer Ecuador on Tandem Bikes
1 Sep
Summary
- Visually impaired individuals ride tandem bikes steered by sighted volunteers.
- The Ciegocleta club promotes inclusion and freedom through cycling.
- One member plans an ambitious 1,000 km ride from Ecuador to Mexico.
In Quito, Ecuador, the Ciegocleta bicycle club provides a unique avenue for visually impaired individuals to experience the thrill of cycling. Since losing his eyesight 16 years ago, Franklin Ochoa has embraced new adventures, including a recent 1,000 km tandem bike ride across Ecuador, facilitated by the club.
Founded 19 years ago by Miguel Ramos, Ciegocleta uses tandem bikes with sighted volunteers steering and blind individuals pedaling. This initiative fosters inclusion and freedom, as highlighted by 54-year-old psychologist Ximena Lozano, a 14-year member who cherishes her outdoor experiences.
Volunteers undergo training, riding with eyes covered to understand their counterparts' experiences. The group comprises 150 members, with about 30 participating weekly. José Paéz, a volunteer, joined to support his father-in-law through depression, finding the experience rewarding despite initial challenges.
Franklin Ochoa's next ambitious goal is a months-long tandem bike journey from Ecuador to Mexico, a testament to the life-changing possibilities Ciegocleta offers.
