WEST DEPTFORD — Woolwich Township residents David and Caroline King hosted a Bike Camp at Riverwinds Community Center in West Deptford during the week of June 23 – 27. Bike Camp teaches individuals with disabilities how to ride a two wheeler.
“Bike camp is an opportunity for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities to experience a milestone,” King commented. “Many of us take riding a bike for granted. Riding a two wheeler requires a combination of skills: focus, balance, steering, pedaling, and stopping.”
King smiled when she said, “You never forget the first time you ride without training wheels.”
During the first several days of camp, riders rode in the gymnasium using adaptive roller-style bikes provided by Bike Camp. After mastering the modified bikes, riders graduated to riding their own typical two-wheeler.
At the conclusion of bike camp, all of the athletes had the confidence to ride their two wheelers in the outdoor arena.
Riders are taught focus and balance. Camp Director Vicki Walters of Mullica Hill, states, “Balance is a life skill that benefits athletes of all abilities.”
Bike Camp 2014 was successful because of the many volunteers who attended bike camp and offered support and encouragement to the Riders. A special thanks to the more than 100 volunteers from the “New Town Press” area who contributed to the success of Bike Camp 2014. One of bike camp’s corporate sponsors sent 25 employees to fulfill their company’s social responsibility requirement. National Honor Society, Key Club, and Interact students received community service credit for their participation.
All riders received a certificate and a trophy at the conclusion of bike camp but the real reward was the confidence and independence the athletes gained from learning to ride a two wheeler.
If you would like more information about bike camp, please email iCanBikeNJ@yahoo.com.
