Breaking Barriers: Team Access Joins Forces with Omeo America and Southern Arizona Adaptive Sports for an Inclusive Cycling Experience!

More than 140 cyclists will be part of Team Access. We’re proud of the team and its strong presence.

In an exciting collaboration, Omeo America a for-profit business, and local non-profit Southern Arizona Adaptive Sports have come together to build Team Access, a team of adaptive cyclists, who through forging a partnership with El Tour de Tucson, are redefining the cycling landscape.

This innovative initiative aims to ensure that accessibility is at the heart of the El Tour Race Experience, making it a welcoming event for all.

TEAM ACCESS provides:

• Race Registration fees (to those who need it)
• Coaching Support and Equipment (for those that need it)
• Team Access Racing Jersey
• Dedicated race start and finish area
• Accessible parking with easy access to the start line
• Assistance loading and unloading bike/gear
• Accessible bathrooms at the start and at aid stations along the route
• Certified ASL interpreter at the start line
• Celebration banquet after the race to further build community and celebrate the team’s accomplishment
• Team Access is open to any adaptive rider who wants additional race-day support and is willing to ride with the Team Access jersey on race day

Inclusivity

Fostering equality by removing barriers to participation, ensuring everyone can enjoy community events.

Community Engagement
Building a strong sense of community by welcoming diverse participants and creating a supportive environment for all.

Health and Wellness
Promoting physical activity and well-being through adaptive sports that accommodate various needs and abilities.

Awareness and Education
Highlighting the importance of accessibility in public events while educating the community on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and how to support them.

Leading the Charge

Accessibility is often overlooked by premier sporting events, leaving adaptive athletes without resources and support. It is the belief of Team Access and El Tour de Tucson that every athlete of every ability deserves the opportunity to compete at a top-tier events, and not have their accessibility be an afterthought. That is why El Tour has partnered with Team Access to ensure the needs of every rider is given thoughtful consideration. Accessibility for All is our motto!

Areas of Success and Growth:

• Innovative Adaptations: ensuring accessible routes and facilities
• Partnership with OMEO AMERICA to help determine access points, parking, and accessible bathroom placement
•  Collaborative efforts by TEAM ACCESS and other organizations to identify and address accessibility needs
•  Seeking input to continually improve the event’s inclusivity
•  Engaging local businesses to support accessibility initiatives
•  Highlighting the stories and achievements of participants with disabilities encourage other athlete’s participation.
•  Continuous assessment and improvement of accessibility measures
•  Setting a benchmark for other community events to follow in creating inclusive environments
•  Ensuring camaraderie and joy for all athletes to experience