Skiing down the slopes in the winter and biking down the mountain come summer, Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports is always on the go. With this summer right around the corner, Vermont Adaptive is excited to announce its new Adaptive Mountain Bike Program, one of the first in New England, is back again for season two. The program offers limited adaptive mountain bikes plus special dates for outings in various locations. All abilities are welcome, and participants may bring their own equipment as well.

This year multiple locations, outings and events are planned for all level mountain bikers who have their own equipment. In addition, four adaptive mountain bikes are available for participants on a first-come, reservations-based system. These highly adjustable bikes are ideal for individuals with Spinal Cord Injuries, Amputations or Limb Differences, or Balance and Motor Skill Disabilities. Vermont Adaptive purchased the bikes last summer with funding from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ grant. Phil Black, owner of the Lookout Tavern, donated monies for Vermont Adaptive to purchase a trailer for hauling the bikes to various locations statewide.

“Participants gain a sense of accomplishment when reaching the top of the mountain and that is great to see,” said Kelly Walsh, Vermont Adaptive program coordinator, who is responsible for Vermont Adaptive’s veterans programs.

For 2017, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs again awarded Vermont Adaptive grant monies to help purchase 10, two-wheeled mountain bikes and 10 bicycles for use on the recreation paths. These bikes will be added to the existing fleet, allowing participants who don’t need to use an adaptive bike to get outside, exercise and socialize with other veterans, to enjoy Vermont alongside their peers with physical disabilities.

The adaptive mountain bike program offers three different types of mountain bikes from ReActive Adaptations; The Nuke, The Bomber and The Stinger. These custom hand cycles are crafted in the mountains of Crested Butte, Colo. Made specifically for rocky terrain, these unique hand cycles are designed for adaptive riders to cruise down the trails smoothly.

Although Vermont Adaptive will have a limited number of adaptive mountain bikes for use, all adaptive riders are encouraged to bring their own bikes and participate in any of the summer events. Reservations are required for programming and equipment use.

The summer will kick off with the 8th Annual Long Trail Century Ride to Benefit Vermont Adaptive’s Mountain Bike “Snowshed Session June 23 at Killington Resort. Adaptive athletes participate for free.

The program is looking for volunteers who have an interest in mountain biking. For information on volunteering, contact Olivia Joseph at north@vermontadaptive.org.

For more information contact Olivia at north@vermontadaptive.org.