Cerebral Palsy Sport launches 'Introduction to RaceRunning' resource
Cerebral Palsy Sport is delighted to announce the launch of its first adapted sports resource: ‘An Introduction to RaceRunning'.
Piloted over the last 18 months by Cerebral Palsy Sport, RaceRunning is a new sport across England. RaceRunning was developed for children, young people and adults with cerebral palsy and other physical impairments, who cannot functionally run and rely on support aids for mobility and balance. It gives those who use such supportive aids an opportunity to walk, run and race their way to achieving their sporting potential.
A RaceRunner is a three wheeled frame similar to a bike, where the athlete is supported by a saddle and body plate. The athlete propels against the frame using their feet, and steers using the mobility within their hands and/or arms. RaceRunners come in different sizes and are adapted to best fit each individual.
Athletes can take part in RaceRunning as a recreational activity. Competition is also available during athletics events in distances from 60m, 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m and 1500m depending on the athlete's experience and level of fitness.
The purpose of this new resource is to support clubs, coaches and volunteers to learn about RaceRunning and how to set the bikes up for athletes. It also provides information on the benefits of RaceRunning and on individuals who could benefit from participating as a RaceRunner, plus ideas of activities when working with athletes.
Cerebral Palsy Sport created the resource with funding from Sport England and with the kind support of physiotherapists, frame manufacturer Quest 88, athletics coaches, clinical specialists and RaceRunning athletes.
Ali Talbot, Chief Executive of Cerebral Palsy Sport said:
“We are delighted to launch our ‘Introduction to RaceRunning’ learning resource today. We hope that the resource is will provide much needed guidance to coaches, physiotherapists and parents to help get more people with cerebral palsy into the wonderful adapted sport of Racerunning”.
Rob Henshaw, Managing Director of Quest 88 commented:
"The Introduction to RaceRunning resource provides a great entry point for anyone looking to introduce RaceRunning as a sport, and need sound advice and a degree of orientation. All the bases are covered - from the origins of the sport; to physical benefits; to an overview of classifications and equipment. Quest 88 thoroughly recommends this guide”.
Ongoing support can be provided to clubs, groups who want to establish RaceRunning opportunities and this resource is the first phase of this. The resource costs £6 (including VAT) + postage and package.
For more information about the new RaceRunning resource and how you can get hold of a copy, click here.
