The story of Michael (the United Kingdom) is a story about his passion for sport. He was born with cerebral palsy which affects both his upper and lower limbs. However, this handicap has not been an obstacle for achieving his goals.

After obtaining his BA (Hons) degree in Sport Development for Inclusion, awarded by the Liverpool John Moores University, Michael has managed to convert his passion into his way of life. He works as a sports coach in a school for people with disabilities and combines his working day with training sessions and competitions as a player of his wheelchair rugby team, 'Murderball', of West Coast Burn (Southport), which plays in the British second division. On top of that, he recently began playing wheelchair tennis, winning the County Championship in his second competition.

«Michael works as a sports coach in a school for people with disabilities and plays wheelchair rugby in the British second division.»

Michael discovered our handbikes through Cyclone Technologies, our partner in the United Kingdom. 'When I had a trial run of the BATEC HYBRID handbike and the BATEC ELECTRIC handbike I was amazed. Though I was even more surprised when I realised how easy it is to connect and disconnect it to the wheelchair'. In the end, Michael decided to buy both models. 'First I bought the BATEC HYBRID because I've always loved cycling, but I was limited by the handbike I used to have. Now I can cover greater distances in less time... and hills are no longer an impossible feat!' Thanks to the improvement of his mobility, Michael participated in what he describes as 'the most exciting adventure with his Batec handbike', the HCPT Group 180 Widnes charity race, held with the purpose of raising money so disabled children can have a holiday in Lourdes at Easter. A really enriching experience for Michael.

«After buying my BATEC HYBRID handbike, I realised that my life would be a lot easier if I also had a BATEC ELECTRIC.»

'After buying my BATEC HYBRID handbike, I realised that my life would be a lot easier if I also had a BATEC ELECTRIC. At first, my family didn't understand the difference between two models and couldn't see the advantages of having another one. Though they've since changed their minds because they can see how now I can lead a normal life: go on holiday, shopping, go out with my friends, go to sports events... and the list is growing longer every day!'