Blind cyclist feels charm of Yamba
PARALYMPIAN Bryce Lindores may be visually impaired, but the spritely Gold Coast athlete can still see what makes Yamba such a special place.
The coastal village, which draws many tourists to the region each year, is making a name for itself as a favourite training circuit for Bryce, who visits once a month.
This time, Bryce has brought his newest acquisition with him - a silver medal he won in London in the Men's individual pursuit.
Describing himself as very happy in the wake of his Paralympics achievement, Bryce said he felt proud to return to the Clarence Valley's favourite seaside destination to visit his friends and reunite with local cyclists who accompany him on his training sessions.
"Yamba is a relaxed place full of nice people and the local roads are quiet, have no traffic lights and are easy to train on," he said.
"I've been coming to Yamba for three years and I would definitely consider moving here one day."
After losing his sight in a freak car accident in 2004, Bryce's love for cycling began after his neighbour, Russell Leary, asked him to ride a tandem with him for fun.
His talent for cycling was soon recognised by his other neighbour, champion Australian cyclist and Tour de France competitor Robbie McEwen, who encouraged the young man to pursue his new-found passion.
"I had lots of support from some inspiring people," Bryce said.
Mr Leary is now based in Yamba, where he manages the Moby Dick Resort, and said he is proud of Bryce and his determination.
"Bryce has become a part of my family and we still go bike riding together when he comes to Yamba each month to train," he said.
Bryce plans to compete in the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Paralympics and says he is confident of bringing home gold. He previously won bronze at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics in the Men's individual pursuit and believes a gold medal is within his reach
Bryce will make regular visits to train in Yamba in the lead-up to his assault on Rio 2016.
