GoHawkeye Athlete: Lecia Baker

I remember years ago that it was a distant dream of mine to be able to have a bike that worked for me, much less own a recumbent bike of the caliber of a Catrike 5.5.9.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Lecia Baker

In the adaptive community mostly any sport we want to be involved in requires expensive equipment. Most equipment that is loaned to us more often than not isn’t the best fit for us. Often times the financial cost is a huge barrier between someone achieving their goals & someone remaining on the sideline. 

In the sport of cycling as I got older that’s exactly how I felt, I was sitting on the sidelines. As a direct result of aging with cerebral palsy, I’ve developed secondary conditions. An upright bike wasn’t the bike for me especially if I wanted to cover competitive distances. I was first introduced to recumbent trikes at my local adaptive recreation center. I rode it and a lightbulb went off in my head, a recumbent trike is the type of equipment I need to maximize my potential. I rode with minimal pain, greater stability, & I could ride a greater distance.

GoHawkeye Foundation removed a significant financial barrier and I am eternally grateful. Because of everyone’s fundraising and donations I have a trike that fits my needs, lifestyle, and has maximized my potential.  I have achieved my first significant goal of being able to ride 20 miles.  I currently cycle a few times a week and have been able to experience a few group rides with my local women’s cycling club. The world of duathlons and triathlons have also been opened to me. I’m excited to explore those type of races in the future. I send my utmost gratitude to everyone at GoHawkeye & the donors.