Don’t miss the Bellin Run’s hand cycle race

May 3, 2011

Some of the fastest participants on the Bellin Run course don’t run it – they peddle.

These participants, commonly referred to as hand cyclists, are regular participants at the annual Bellin Run 10K. Unable to run or walk due to permanent injury or disability, hand cyclists participate in the Bellin Run through the use of cycles that are powered or peddled using the arms rather than the legs.

The hand cycle racers typically start the Bellin Run before all other participants and usually offer a hotly contested race.

“Our hand cyclists are here each year competing with the same intensity as any of the elite runners on the course,” executive race director Randy Van Straten said. “They add another exciting layer to our annual run event. It’s amazing to watch these athletes really battle all along the course.”

Last year’s hand cycle race winner was Matthew Barber of Green Bay. His finishing time was 23:38. By comparison, the top finisher of the 2010 Bellin Run 10K recorded a finishing time of 29:12.

Familiar Bellin Run hand cycle competitors in recent years include: David Samsa, Jeff Pagels, Keith Lenss, and Robert Jenkel.

Make sure to watch for this year’s field of hand cyclists to see who comes out on top!