A bicycle ride can be within reach for people of all ages who haven’t been able to enjoy that summertime favorite. It’s all part of the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital’s (CVPH) new Adaptive Cycling Day.

The event takes place on Saturday, September 21 from 9 am to 3 pm along the James Terry Gordon Bike Path at the Plattsburgh Oval. It is being organized by the hospital’s Ability II Achieve Adaptive Sports Program. Experts will be on hand to help set up equipment tailored to all sizes and abilities from ages three and up, and volunteers will assist participants as they take their first ride along the scenic bike path.

“One of the great things about adaptive sports is that you’re giving someone the freedom and independence to do something that brought joy previously. And this event is also a great opportunity to try something new and different,” says Erin Daly, DPT, PT, Senior Physical Therapist at CVPH.

Keeseville’s Devann Murphy, who has won marathons in New York City, Boston and Burlington with a handcycle, will be at the event to mentor folks thinking about getting an adaptive bike. Daly adds that physical and occupational therapists from the hospital will be there to talk about what bikes are available, including hand cycles and tandem bikes. They’ll also learn what each attendee’s goals and interests are. Then, folks will be helped transferring on to the cycles safely. She hopes this will kickstart people into a healthier lifestyle.

“Physical activity and sport participation can increase lifelong health and wellness for anyone with physical disabilities. Our plan is to educate the community on adaptive cycling through this equipment trial day. At the same time, we’ll be connecting them with resources so they can get their own cycles and start pedaling down a path of fun and exercise,” Daly explains.

Members of RAD Innovations, a company that custom builds cycles and is based in Cornwall, Vermont, will be on hand to help fit the bike to the person based on individual needs. A cycle for children will also be available. Daly encourages families to bring their bikes along to enjoy a ride together with the person trying out one of the adaptive cycles.

“We live in a beautiful area and have access to this wonderful bike path,” Daly says. “Our goal is to get people to enjoy nature and get back to an active lifestyle.”

Daly asks that anyone interested register for the event by calling 518-562-7154 or emailing Ability2Achieve@cvph.org. The deadline to register is September 13.

The Ability II Achieve Adaptive Sports Program also thanks The Foundation of CVPH, Freedom Concepts, Inc., National Seating & Mobility and Rabson Rehab Sales, LTD for their support of Adaptive Cycling Day.