MAKING IT POSSIBLE FOR THE BLIND TO RIDE
Written by Steven Cozza
Monday, 30 January 2006
Request for Tandem Bicycle Program Support

The Earle Baum Center of the Blind (EBC) is expanding a tandem bicycle program with the assistance and guidance of Steven Cozza, a rider for the United States National Team and a member of YAWADOO - COLBA - ABM Continental Cycling Team of Belgium, a professional racing team. The EBC has regular rides together with the ongoing participation of the Santa Rosa Cycling Club, which are always great fun and excellent exercise and now, the program is moving to a new level. It is the intention of the EBC to promote and develop an elite level program to prepare blind and visually impaired athletes for competition.

Steven has recently teamed up with Sean Paola, a blind a student attending Santa Rosa Junior College, to prepare for the ultimate goal of participating in competitions that lead to the Para-Olympics. Sean, an avid athlete throughout his life, unexpected woke up one morning three years ago without sight. No longer being able to ride alone, Sean was given the opportunity to regain his enthusiasm of riding and is now determined to continue with far reaching goals.

In order for the EBC to be able to help blind and visually impaired athletes like Sean compete against others with equally ambitious goals, we need top quality equipment including high quality tandems, tools, riding gear and accessories. The only way we can level the playing field is with financial support and dedicated volunteers. We ask you to consider both. Money or in-kind donations is needed for the equipment and skilled pilots are required to help the athletes train.

If you have an interest in being apart of this exciting program, please call Allan Brenner at the Earle Baum Center or write us at the following address: