Hand-cycling over the Seven Bridge what an experience. South Wales and England is separated by the river Seven. A mass expanse of water. Crossed in two main places by two iconic bridges. Originally the Seven bridge that made up the M4 motorway. After many years in full service this was replaced by the new Seven Bridge river crossing.
The old bridge became part of the A48. Currently still used by 1000’s of people everyday. Once a year 1000’s of motorcyclist cross the bridge for Hog The Bridge. The event raises a lot of money for some great causes. As a biker I used to complete this event nearly every year. When I became a wheelchair user I sold my bike and started to take interest in hand-cycling. The idea of crossing the bridge was one that a really good friend suggested to me. So we set about and decided we would do it ASAP.
I didn’t go into great planning. We simply loaded my hand-cycle and his mountain bike into a van and we set off. The route was not massively challenging. The first half was a steady incline and the views where just amazing. I have crossed that bridge millions of times. This was the first time I had the opportunity to stop and look at the bridge from this fantastic position.
The wind was blowing and every time a lorry passed by the whole bridged rocked. We where safe on the side path and the experience was simply mind-blowing. With the view right up the river it was breath-taking.
Sometimes it’s not the big challenges in your life that you need to think about it. Sometimes it can be the little things that stick strongest in your mind. Crossing this bridge was not about pushing my limits or testing my strengths. this time it was about doing something. Something I can with an old mate and being together with no limits.
When I became I full-time wheelchair user things changed. People around me needed to help me. They needed to adapt to my way of life. Its been tough but for me cycling across the Seven Bridge with one of my very dear and close friends was a massive milestone. A time I feel very grateful for. It made me realise that I am still me and still a normal person. A moment I will treasure for a long time. Sometimes its the simple things in life that mean the most…………………
Like this:
Like Loading...
Related