Who are the Bet Halochem cyclists ?
The group
An exceptional group of disabled veterans from the IDF shares a common passion for cycling. They meet four times a week to train on adapted bikes along the beautiful Tel Aviv coastline. Their resilience is simply remarkable; they have managed to turn their challenges into strengths, making their condition an asset. Whether paraplegic, amputee, or burn survivor, they have built a close-knit community that fosters support and friendship. Through cycling and sports, these veterans have not only regained an enriching social life but have also successfully re-lived their personal and professional lives, inspiring all those around them. Their determination and team spirit make them a model to follow, and each group outing is a celebration of their courage and willingness to live life to the fullest.
The goal
Every day, IDF veterans face the challenge of living with their condition. It is a journey filled with obstacles but also a unique opportunity to reinvent themselves and surpass their limits. Our mission is to provide them with the chance to embark on hand bike trips across Europe, where they can not only enjoy the beauty of the world but also rebuild themselves with every pedal stroke.
These trips are not just getaways; they represent a celebration of life, a way to unite a community, and to share moments of strength and hope. We firmly believe that every limit overcome is a victory and that every smile exchanged during these adventures is a symbol of solidarity.
The project
Since 2012, our ambitious project has allowed us to organize enriching trips to Lyon, Geneva, Nantes, and Alsace. These excursions, which have been suspended since October 7, have profoundly impacted the group as well as the hosts, volunteers, and donors. On each trip, we developed five cycling excursions, during which we had the opportunity to meet the local Jewish communities and discover and savor the culinary specialties of each region. Moreover, these trips have allowed us to connect with individuals with physical disabilities, regardless of their Jewish affiliation, in order to raise awareness and change perceptions. Each encounter has been an opportunity for enriching exchanges, nuanced perceptions, and creating bridges between different cultures.
Our next destination: the Côte d'Azur.
Our objective
The objective of this project is to offer disabled veterans from Tsahal an unforgettable experience with five cycling excursions of 40 to 50 km along the roads of the Côte d'Azur. We plan a week-long stay in a suitable hotel to ensure their comfort. During this week, they will have the opportunity to meet the local communities of Cannes, Nice, Antibes, and Monaco, as well as Israelis living in the region.
In addition to these encounters, we wish to allow them to taste local specialties such as socca, pissaladière, ratatouille, and tarte tropézienne. This project aims to strengthen community ties and promote a spirit of inclusion and sharing.
Want to introduce them to your region? Contact us :)