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Push the Line. Break the Barriers.
A spinal cord injury at 16 changed how I move, but not how far I’m willing to go.
Now I’m pushing into adaptive mountain biking to break barriers and expand what’s possible.
This is the next step in a journey built on resilience, purpose, and pushing past limits.
From Survival to Purpose: The Next Climb
At 16 years old, my life changed in an instant after an ATV rollover left me with a T4–T5 spinal cord injury.
What didn’t change was my drive to move forward.
Years later, I found that path again through para-cycling, and it became everything:
my therapy, my competition, my purpose, and my way of giving back.
Today, I’m a competitive road para-cyclist, working full-time while pursuing high-performance goals and building something bigger than myself.
But I’m not done pushing.
The Next Step: Adaptive Mountain Biking
I’m working toward expanding into adaptive mountain biking, not just for competition, but for freedom, inclusion, and impact.
An adaptive mountain bike would allow me to:
- Ride trails alongside friends, family, and teammates
- Access terrain that currently isn’t possible
- Train in new ways that build strength and performance
- Fully participate in the mountain biking community without barriers
This is about more than riding.
It’s about access, inclusion, and belonging.
The Reality of Funding
Here’s the part most people don’t see:
- I entered this sport later than most athletes
- I live in Northern Ontario with limited local resources
- I work full-time while training and competing
- And most traditional funding pathways don’t fit my journey
Many grant programs are designed for:
- Youth development pathways
- Newly injured individuals in early rehabilitation
- Athletes already embedded in national team systems
In Canada especially, funding for adaptive sport equipment is extremely limited. Most accessibility grants prioritize basic daily mobility, not performance equipment like an adaptive mountain bike.
I am applying to additional funding sources, including some in the United States, but these opportunities are:
- Highly competitive
- Limited in availability
- Not guaranteed
So like much of my journey so far, this next step relies on community support.
Why This Bike Matters
These bikes are a significant investment, typically $20,000+ CAD once everything is included with customization, shipping, and setup.
But what it represents goes far beyond the price tag.
This bike means:
Accessibility & Inclusion
The ability to ride trails and be part of a community without limitations.
Longevity & Health
Staying strong, active, and competitive for years to come.
Performance & Progression
Expanding my training and continuing to grow as an athlete.
Inspiration & Advocacy
Helping shift the narrative around disability and what’s possible.
Future Impact
My goal isn’t just to ride, it’s to give back.
I’m working toward becoming:
- An ambassador for adaptive sport and accessibility
- A mentor and coach for other adaptive athletes
- Someone who helps open doors for others entering this space
This bike is a critical step toward that future.
Impact Beyond Myself
I don’t just ride for me.
I ride in support of something bigger.
- Kids
- Mental health initiatives
- First responders
- Families facing challenges
Cycling has given me purpose, connection, and a way to give back.
With every mile, every race, and every new opportunity, that impact grows.
This next step isn’t just about expanding what I can do.
It’s about expanding who I can reach and help along the way.
The Goal
I’m raising:
$25,000 CAD
This will go directly toward:
- An adaptive mountain bike
- Custom setup and fitting
- Getting onto trails and into the next chapter of this journey
Be Part of This Ride
If you believe in:
- Breaking barriers
- Creating access and opportunity
- Supporting someone pushing beyond limits
I invite you to be part of this journey.
Whether you donate, share, or follow along, it all makes a difference.
Final Word
I’ve built this path through persistence, community, and belief.
This is the next step.
Push the Line. Break the Barriers.
Let’s ride.
— Kevin McKenna


