Ciegocleta: Tandem Bicycle Club Empowers Visually Impaired Riders in Quito

In Quito, Ecuador, the tandem bicycle club Ciegocleta is transforming the lives of visually impaired individuals by offering them the opportunity to cycle with the assistance of sighted volunteers. Founded 19 years ago by Miguel Ramos, the group meets every Sunday, utilizing specially built tandem bikes to participate in the city’s weekly ciclopaseo event. The club has grown to 150 members, with about 30 participating regularly. One of the club's most active members, 44-year-old Franklin Ochoa, who lost his sight 16 years ago, recently completed a 1,000-kilometer ride across Ecuador and plans an ambitious journey to Mexico. Riders receive safety training, and volunteers are encouraged to experience the ride blindfolded to better understand their partners' perspectives. The club not only promotes physical activity but also fosters social inclusion and empowerment among its members. Psychologist Ximena Lozano, blind since birth, credits the club with helping her develop a sense of freedom and outdoor enjoyment. Ciegocleta serves as a model for inclusion and a beacon of new opportunities for Ecuador's approximately 56,000 visually impaired citizens.