Biker Claire Lomas Doesn’t Let Paralysis Stop Her from Participating in Isle of Man TT Motorcycle Challenge

Claire Lomas got into a horse riding accident in 2007 that left her paralyzed from the chest down. Unable to feel any movement or sensation in her lower body, the woman’s life was turned upside down, but she did not give up.

(Image taken from Claire’s Challenge)

 

Since then, she has rebuilt her life and picked up riding again - but this time, it will be on a metal steed.

Lomas had received an invitation from The Bike Experience, a charity that gets riders back on their bikes after an injury or illness, and decided to give it a go.

She had qualms at first, with her initial thought being “this is crazy - the only part of the bike I can feel would be the handlebars and how would I balance?!”

 

Check out her first attempt at the motorbike

 

Even so, Lomas succeeded and even managed to get a race license on her second attempt in 2017.

 

Below is a video that records her first training session at Mallory Park:

 

After which, her next step will be to ride a lap of the high profile Isle of Man TT at the Manx Grand prix on August 29th.

 

To prepare for the dangerous TT course, the 38-year-old woman took part in a track day at the Donington circuit, as pictured below.

 

(Image taken from Claire’s facebook)

 

Speaking to the Melton Times, the mother of two mentioned that although she was nervous about the challenge, she “absolutely loved it.”

“I didn’t do the whole day as physically it is so tough - my beck and arms ache but they are building up each time,” she added.

“The TT course is certainly one of the toughest challenges I have taken on and most scary.”

To aid in her challenge, Lomas will be riding astride a special motorbike with hand control gears, velcro on her knees to stop them from flapping, and toe clips to stop her feet from sliding. Someone will be there to launch the biker as well, so that she can gain momentum and continue riding.

 

Lomas also did her own training for the event, taking time to build up her stamina and strength in her arms, shoulders and neck especially since she is unable to use her core muscles.

Although it is going to be difficult, her aim is to raise as much as she can for Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation, The Bike Experience and The Matt Hampson Foundations. These organizations aid those with paralysis, hopeful bikers and injured sportsmen respectively.

 

To find out more about this amazing woman and her awe-inspiring story, visit the Claire’s Challenge website here.