Autistic Riders Circle Taiwan: Links

A group of cyclists who have been diagnosed with autism are currently on their third day of a round-island adventure that seeks to provide a positive activity for those with autism and their families.

I recently had an autistic student in my class, and it was a lot of work. She was a delightful girl, but demanded a lot of attention, but she had plenty of energy and enthusiasm, so I can see how cycling could be a great activity for families with an autistic member. My favorite quote from the article is from one participant's father:

"She might get hurt. However, seeing that she was so looking forward to the journey, I decided to fulfill this dream with her, "

I wish more parents shared this attitude with their children. I see so many parents afraid their children will draw a little blood or get a bruise that the children are so pampered and brittle they break or cry at the slightest bump or fall. Kids actually break bones from tripping and falling down.

I am also very proud of my wife for calling her bruise from a fall on some loose sand last weekend "a trophy".

Also:

• China Post on Taiwan Cycling Festival. Less critical than I am.
• Todd at the Daily Bubble Tea eases back into cycling.
• 2011 Tour de France route unveiled. Should we care?
• Armstrong Testes Positive. Welcomes fifth child. He may be going for a record seven in a row.
• The Dangers of Cycling.
• If You Build Them, They Will Come! London cycling superhighways attract riders. Taiwan has a lesson to learn here somewhere.