Powerful pedal program to expand

A LOCAL not-for-profit support service provider is powering on with one of its popular bike riding programs.

Leisure Networks will expand its Power 2 Pedal Program thanks to generous financial support from Benefit Geelong.

The Power 2 Pedal Program gives children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) the chance to learn to ride their bike safely.

The program is run by Australian Cycling certified coaches and runs participants through all the essential skills of cycling.

Leisure Networks program coordinator Tori Honner said all Victorians, including those with disabilities should be able to ride safely.

“We are excited about being able to create programs that offer Victorians with disabilities the chance to take part in the sports they love.

“We all deserve to experience good health and happiness.

“We know that sport is so good for us, yet people with disabilities don’t have the same opportunities to get involved.”

Mark Cunneen from Benefit Geelong said their support will help Leisure Networks continue touching the lives of many.

“We are thrilled to support this program to enable young people to have the freedom of riding a bike.

“It’s such a simple and powerful thing, and we are really looking forward to seeing it continue in our region.”

The program is also being supported by Geelong Cycling Club, who will host the sessions at their Belmont track.

“It is great to support and be able to connect to other forms of cycling in the community,” club president Kris Hink said.

“Since our initial support in 2019 of Power 2 Pedal, it’s great to see it back in Geelong and around our club.”

A total of 20 cycling sessions will be conducted across term 4 of 2024 and term 1 of 2025.

For more information, head to leisurenetworks.org