We represent the Douglas Bader Foundation. A charity founded in memory of the late Group Captain Sir Douglas Bader. He was an acclaimed ace fighter pilot in the 2nd World War. Nicknamed 'Old Tin Legs' as a double amputee. His story is retold in the 1954 film 'Reach for the Sky'. After being shot down and captured by the Germans he was held at Colditz, his legs were forfeited to prevent his perpetual escapes. His inspriational story has been an epic event effecting many lives.
In the true Bader spirit, Team Bader has been founded to inspire amputees to take up a sport which is particularly suited to them, it being non-weight bearing. Whether on a conventional 2 wheel solo bike, tandem, trike, or recumbant, there's a model to suit all from single limb to paraplegic. In particular to take part in time trialling - the race of truth. We hope to encourage amputees and raise awareness within the sport itself, that there are amputees who can cycle and also are able to compete in their own right.
We aim to help promote the CTT's awareness that this sport is for ALL. Towards this goal the CTT have accknowledged 'Paracyclists' as a formal classification. That events are open to riders of this classification the symbol 'P' is added.
The RTTC Classic Series has a Paracycling Group competition - as well as other classes. This is a tough series of 5 or 6 events where points are awarded dependant on placing. There's a high level of competition on challenging courses. Many of the GB Paracyling Team use it as part of their preparation.
In other events to date there are only 1 ot 2 of 10miles that have a separate competition for Paracyclists. We hope that there will be more events in future including 'P' within their event's competition.