TrioBike launch at Saint Joseph’s

THE sun was shining at St Joseph’s in Shankill for last week’s launch of the TrioBike.

Sports writer and former Olympic cyclist, Paul Kimmage, officially launched the TrioBike, which is designed to get its residents out and about.

Paul said: “I for one know just how wonderful it is to experience the sense of freedom of cycling and it is amazing to witness the residents and their families enjoying this TrioBike, despite the limitations of their illness.”

Fundraising manager Siobhan Grant put out a call on behalf of St Joseph’s to potential volunteers in the community who would like to become a ‘TrioBike pilot’. 

She said: “We would love to recruit as many people as possible to join our TrioBike team, enabling our residents to feel the wind in their hair and enjoy the beautiful surrounds of our local community. We are calling out to our community to volunteer with us to become TrioBike pilots. We will provide training in the operation of the TrioBike to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.”

The TrioBike was purchased through a number of family and staff run fundraising initiatives. 

St Joseph’s is an affiliate of the Cycling Without Age international programme which has a vision of creating happiness among elderly citizens by providing them with an opportunity to remain an active part of society and the local community.

Over 30 volunteer pilots have already been trained to pedal the bike, taking residents – who are living with dementia – and their families on cycles around Shankill.

For more information on becoming a TrioBike pilot, call 01-2823000.