Team Access will compete in El Tour de Tucson with 130 adaptive athletes

TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — One hundred thirty athletes from Team Access will compete in Saturday’s El Tour de Tucson, representing Southern Arizona Adaptive Sports. Among them is Jean Parker, a blind cyclist who has been training for the competition with her guide Josh Hallada since July.

Parker, who has been a cyclist most of her life, was invited to take part in the race a few months ago. Despite her initial surprise, she and Hallada quickly began preparing, training twice a week on a tandem bike.

“This bike is tough to ride long distances,” Parker said. But through determination and communication, the couple made progress.

Hallada, who watches Parker on the road, said their teamwork is critical. “I try to pay attention to what’s ahead and describe the course to her,” he said. “We’ve really grown as a team.”

Their training included races of up to 25 miles, preparing them for Saturday’s 32-mile race. Both are optimistic about this task. “We are properly prepared,” Parker said. “So I’m nervous? No”.

The Access team, which has grown from 97 athletes last year, is always looking for volunteers to support adaptive athletes. Those interested can contact Southern Arizona Adaptive Sports for more information.