SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Under bright blue skies and perfect spring weather, the Arizona Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ACBVI) made a powerful statement at this year’s Tour de Scottsdale on April 12, 2025.

Riding side-by-side with hundreds of cyclists from across the region, a team of ACBVI clients and volunteers hit the course — including two blind riders who pedaled tandem bikes with their sighted partners. For many onlookers, it was a stirring reminder that with the right support and determination, barriers can be broken down, one mile at a time.

“Crossing that finish line felt amazing,” said Logan, a client of ACBVI who completed the Half Metric Century ride alongside volunteer pilot David. “It wasn’t just about the distance. It was about proving to myself that I could do it.”

The Tour de Scottsdale, now one of Arizona’s premier cycling events, offered two course options this year: a 62-mile Metric Century and a 32-mile Half Metric Century, winding through the stunning landscapes of Scottsdale, Rio Verde, and Fountain Hills. For the ACBVI team, the experience wasn’t just about athletic achievement — it was about visibility, inclusion, and community.

“It’s easy for people to assume that vision loss limits what someone can do,” said Michelle H., one of the ACBVI team organizers. “Today, our clients showed what’s truly possible when accessibility meets opportunity.”

The tandem riders trained for weeks leading up to the event, building trust, communication, and stamina with their volunteer pilots. Along the course, they faced steep climbs, sharp turns, and the occasional gust of desert wind — all met with determination and a lot of cheering from the sidelines.

Beyond the physical challenge, ACBVI’s participation was a celebration of independence — a central pillar of the organization’s mission. Founded in 1947, ACBVI provides life skills training, employment services, and recreational opportunities to individuals who are blind or visually impaired across Arizona.

“Days like today show the power of community support,” said Steve T., CEO of ACBVI. “It’s not about disabilities; it’s about possibilities.”

As cyclists crossed the finish line to a chorus of applause, there was a shared sense that something bigger than a race had been accomplished. For ACBVI and its riders, the Tour de Scottsdale wasn’t just a bike ride — it was a bold ride toward a more inclusive future.

For more information about ACBVI’s programs and how to get involved, visit acbvi.org.