On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we are reflecting on the impact British Cycling’s internationally-acclaimed Disability programme, Limitless, is having on disabled people within cycling communities.
The theme this year's IDPD is amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.
Limitless – supported by Shell UK - is British Cycling’s disability-inclusive cycling programme which provides cycling opportunities for disabled people, regardless of age, impairment and ability. It has been shortlisted for the ‘Cycling for All’ award at the inaugural UCI Cycling for All & Sustainability Awards later this month.
The programme has broken-down barriers for disabled people with all impairments to access the sport, leading to several health and well-being benefits including reducing social isolation. It is connecting communities, as well as continuing to build a sustainable infrastructure for clubs to provide the equipment and training to disabled people, as well as creating integrated competition.
At Kent CycloPark, Dr. Annie Davies, Limitless Lead, has found her life's calling in coaching inclusive cycling. For her, her work isn’t a job - it’s a mission. Growing up with a family member who was severely disabled, Annie learned early on that limitations don’t define a person’s potential.
“Every rider at the club is an inspiration,” says Annie. “One of our riders had to learn to walk again after battling a brain tumour. His dream is to ride a mountain bike, and we're going to make that happen! Watching someone rediscover their strength, their independence—it’s why I do what I do”.
“Cycling is about so much more than exercise. It’s about joy, resilience, and pushing past what you thought was possible.”
For riders like Mel Robson from Stockton Wheelers, Limitless has been nothing short of life-changing. What started as a reluctant hobby, driven by her partner’s passion for cycling, and her mother’s insistence that she should try something new, cycling has now become the source of her greatest strength.
“If you’d asked me a year ago if I would ride 150 miles for charity, I would’ve laughed,” Mel recalls. “Now, I’m fitter than I’ve ever been, and I’ve made friendships I never expected. Cycling has helped me through some really difficult times. It’s given me a way to ride out my struggles.”
Mel’s story is just one of many. Riders across the UK are finding not just fitness, but a sense of belonging.
For many, Limitless has become a community, a lifeline, and a way to reclaim their independence.
If you have a disability and want to experience the freedom, connection, and joy of cycling, we encourage you to find a club, get involved and join the growing Limitless community.
