JANESVILLE — A local TV station report years ago planted a seed in Kathy Calkins’ mind that has germinated into a summertime activity she looks forward to each season.
Since 2019, Calkins, a volunteer with the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Rock County, has been serving as “pilot,†or bike rider, of a season-long activity that gives seniors age 55 and up and people with disabilities the opportunity to connect with nature and experience the enjoyment of a bike ride.
“I hope that people enjoy getting a ride on that bike, as much as I enjoy being able to do that for them,†Calkins said.
The ADRC of Rock County annually rolls out its free Cycling Without Age program at Palmer Park, 2501 Palmer Drive, in Janesville. Rides are offered from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Fridays from June through September. Slots are filling up quickly, though there is still availability, starting in the second half of July.
In addition to the regular Cycling Without Age Friday outings, the ADRC of Rock County this year is launching a new special-themed outing for couples. Three Tuesday evening “Date Night†sessions, each from 4 to 6 p.m., will be held this season: June 17, July 15 and Aug. 19. Special accompaniments, including music, are included.
Pat Burhans has been a ride recipient with her husband. He has long enjoyed the sport and appreciated reconnecting with one of his favorite pastimes.
“He was a real big bike rider, but, unfortunately, heÃÛèÖÊÓƵ had health issues and cannot ride any longer,†Burhans said. “It was a new experience for me. I really enjoyed it.â€
Cori Marsh, aging unit supervisor with the ADRC of Rock County, said a program such as Cycling Without Age is an opportunity to bridge gaps between generations.
“We have a grandma who brings her disabled grandson,†Marsh said, pointing out one example. “ItÃÛèÖÊÓƵ something they can do together, even though neither one is able to ride a bike at this point in time. ItÃÛèÖÊÓƵ just lovely to see them smile.â€
Whenever she gears up for a pedal session, Calkins said her overarching goal is to meet her riders where they are at on the given day.
“Sometimes thereÃÛèÖÊÓƵ a lot of conversation, back and forth, and sometimes I’m just quiet and they talk amongst themselves,†Calkins said. “For some people, they simply enjoy listening to the birds and not have any noise. I take my cue from whoever I’m piloting.â€
Over time, Calkins has scouted out specific spots along the bike trail near Palmer Park that has been known to have wildlife sightings — most notably, deer.
“We’ll just stop the bike and watch, as long as the deer will let us,†Calkins said.
While the riders taking part in Cycling Without Age gain much from the experience, Calkins said the same holds true for the pilots.
“I think so many of us get caught up in the rat race of our lives,†Calkins said. “But to be able to slow down and simply be outside and have the wind in your hair is something that a lot of us don’t take the time to appreciate.â€
Reservations for all Cycling Without Age outings are required. To secure a spot, or get more information on the program, call Cori Marsh at 608-757-5416.
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