Regina Cassandra recently cycled from Kurnool to Hyderabad to create awareness about para-athletes who participate in many sports like the Para Olympics. “Yes, there are many disabled athletes representing India. But people always remember the regular sportspersons like Sania, Saina and others. These athletes too are fighting for our country, but no one pays attention,” says Regina.
A group of cyclists including a few para-athletes started the ride from Bengaluru to Hyderabad a few days ago and Regina joined them at Kurnool, riding nearly 150 km till Hyderabad. “It is so motivating. On my part I wanted to encourage them and also to inspire other people,” says the actress. She reached Jadcherla at night from Kurnool, and on the next day, August 15, she reached Hyderabad. Talking about Aditya Mehta, a para-cyclist who started the foundation to help others, the actress says, “He lost his leg five years back in an accident and he has been cycling ever since.”
She also adds that these athletes can’t afford the equipment. “The famous Jaipur leg is cheap, but they can’t run or walk with it as it is very heavy. A good prosthetic costs around Rs 2 lakh and ones for training cost around Rs 20 lakh,” she adds. Regina also had a lot of practice for the run.
“I started with 18 km rides, then 26 km and finally 50 km. A long cycle ride is about will power, not skill,” she says. The Kurnool to Jadcherla stretch was tough. “The wind was against us. Also it was very hot. But the weather from Jadcherla to Hyderabad was good,” she says, adding that despite being in gear, she was recognised at some places when they stopped for breaks.
