The Blind Stokers Club in Solana Beach pairs sighted captains with blind stokers for tandem cycling.
SOLANA BEACH, Calif. — The Blind Stokers Club is proving that vision loss doesn’t have to limit one’s ability to enjoy outdoor activities like cycling. The club pairs sighted “captains” with blind or visually impaired “stokers” on tandem bicycles, allowing them to ride together safely.
“It’s terribly rewarding,” said Dave White, who founded the Blind Stokers Club 20 years ago.
The club doesn’t just stop at cycling. Members also participate in hiking, swimming, rock climbing, sailing, and kayaking.
“It shows me the power of partnership,” said White.
For many members, the club has been life-changing. Mark Woodard, who lost his sight at age 10 due to an accidental shotgun blast, encourages others to “Get off that couch and go ride a bike.”
Hiro Iwamoto, another club member who lost his vision at 16, completed an impressive 55-day sailing journey from San Diego to Japan.
The trust between captains and stokers is crucial. CBS 8 reporter Jeff Zevely experienced this firsthand when he was blindfolded and placed on the back of a tandem bike.
“This takes a lot of trust,” Zevely said during the ride.
“Trust is the word,” Captain White responded.
The Blind Stokers Club continues to demonstrate that with the right support and adaptations, visual impairment doesn’t have to be a barrier to an active lifestyle.
The Blind Stokers Club is hosting its annual “Cycling for Sight” event on August 9th and 10th. Proceeds will benefit the San Diego Center for the Blind. Those interested in participating or learning more can click here.