‘Hotwheels’ takes on mammoth 770-mile handcycle challenge for Support Dogs
A disabled dad-of-eight is taking on a mammoth trans-continental ride in his specialist cycle in aid of a charity close to his heart.
Darren “Hotwheels” Sables is riding his hand-cycle from his home in Doncaster to Helmond in the Netherlands, tackling a 770-mile round trip over the course of a week.
It’s all in aid of Support Dogs, a Sheffield-based charity which trains and provides assistance dogs to help autistic children, as well as adults with epilepsy or a physical disability to live safer and more independent lives.
Darren, 37, is a former paramedic who became paralysed in July 2020 following a battle with his mental health.
But since then, Darren, who was left with a spinal cord injury, says his outlook on life has become brighter, and he is keen to help others.
Darren aims to raise £500 for the charity, and is charting his journey on his online JustGiving page.
He said: “What Support Dogs does is amazing – I love the charity’s ethos.
“These dogs are life-changing and I just wanted to do something to help.”
Darren set off yesterday [Wednesday] on a route from Doncaster via Howden to Hull Ferry Terminal, before catching the 8pm overnight P&O Cruise, heading to Europoort in Rotterdam.
From there he was due to ride 70 miles to a campsite near S-hertogenbosch, staying overnight before heading the last 80 miles towards Helmond, where he was picking up a custom-built bicycle campervan (fahrradwohnwagen).
Then he was due to make the return trip the following day.
Darren has used a recumbent handcycle for three years and when he’s not using that, he can be seen in his custom-made pink glittery wheelchair. His speediness in his wheelchair after his ordeal earned him the nickname “Hot Wheels” from medics.
Describing his charity trip, he said: “It’s going to be fun. It’s going to be warmer than England.
“The only obstacle I envisage is the language barrier, but it’s so cycle-friendly. I can’t wait. If it takes me a week, great, if it takes two weeks, I’m in no rush.”
Anyone wishing to sponsor Darren can visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/handcycle-uk-nl-uk
To find out more about Support Dogs, please visit www.supportdogs.org.uk