Hand Cycling
Hand Cycling
Basics
There are two types of handcycle; one that clips on to the front of a wheelchair and one that the rider sits in. For competitive handcycling nearly all riders use a sit in handcycle as it is nearer the ground, providing maximal acceleration and turning
A Paralympic sport since Athens 2004
There are two events for both men and women in competitive handcycling, road race and time trial
In the time trial athlete’s race against the clock, race distance depends on an athlete’s classification. The athlete who records the fastest time over the distance is the winner. Road races are held on roads over various distances, again depending on an athlete’s classification. First past the post is declared the winner!
Who can participate?
Handcycling is for those who cannot use a regular bicycle or tricycle due to severe lower limb disability such as a double leg amputee or a complete spinal injury. Handcycling is classified using a classification system:
HC Division A: Complete loss of trunk and lower limb function, due complex disabilities
HC Division B: Complete lower limb function loss and limited trunk stability
HC Division C: Complete lower limb function loss but minimal other disabilities that makes it impossible to participate in normal cycling
Where in the world?
At the Beijing 2008 Paralympics a mixture of countries from different continents grabbed Paralympic glory. Riders from South Africa, Switzerland and Germany. However, Great Britain’s golden girl Rachel Morris claimed gold in the Women’s HCA/HCB/HCC Time Trial. Her first Paralympic gold medal was recently added to with two double gold medals at the 2010 World Championships.
What’s near me?
Handcycling UK run regular training weekends at Stoke Mandeville Stadium. If you are interested in getting involved in Handcycling please get in contact using the link below.
Further information
