Jimmy Goddard, 2009 British Paratriathlon Champion, advises novice paratriathletes to try before they buy when it comes to choosing a handcycle.

Paratriathlon – triathlon for individuals with a multitude of disabilities – is not in itself a new concept.  Visually impaired athletes, wheelchair athletes, amputees and many others have been competing in triathlons for a long time.  However, the formalisation of the sport, the introduction of official functionality classifications and the promotion of national, European and world championships have taken the sport to a new level.  This is all being done with the goal of including paratriathlon in the 2016 Paralympics.   

For wheelchair users thinking of taking up the sport the first thing to get hold of is a decent handcycle, as cycling makes up by far the greatest proportion of the race.

But don’t rush out and buy a brand new model until you are sure of what you need. There are many makes of handcycle out there and different designs suit different people (see the list of manufacturers on the UK Handcycling Association website www.handcyclinguk.org.uk for more information). Experiment with borrowed machines as much as possible.

In the first instance, it may be worth contacting Matt Lindley of the UK Handcycling Association. He may be able to arrange a short term loan or put you in touch with somebody selling one second hand.

But while a lent or used handcycle will be perfectly sufficient for a first race and will give you a taste of the sport, if you are serious about continuing it will be almost essential to buy yourself a good quality machine.  Unfortunately, they cost a good deal of money. 

A low profile, lightweight racing handcycle could set you back in excess of £3000. 

When you reach the stage when you know you want to buy a new handcycle, it’s probably worth talking to someone like Rob Wycombe at Bromakin Wheelchairs (www.bromakin.co.uk) or Chris Maddon at Draft Wheelchairs (www.draftwheelchairs.com). Both are extremely accomplished racers and can give expert advice on what you need. Buying a handcycle is too expensive a decision to get wrong. You need to take the time to get it right.

While the costs involved in paratriathlon might seem like a huge barrier to entry, with some imagination and tenacity these can be overcome. For example, if you pester all of your local resources such as the Round Table, Lions Club and local charities you may well find some help towards the cost.  Or ask your triathlon club to help out perhaps. Disabled sport is not cheap. People recognise this and are often willing to support.

Good luck!

Editor’s note: look out for more on paratriathlon from Jimmy Goddard over the coming months, including advice on wheelchairs, wetsuits and training.

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