Wheelchair Racer Daniel Romanchuk's Wheels for Change Initiative Aims to Empower Athletes

American Paralympic gold medalist Daniel Romanchuk has launched Wheels for Change, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing access to wheelchair racing equipment for individuals with disabilities. Romanchuk and his organization have partnered with Clif Bar to support the initiative.

American Paralympic gold medalist Daniel Romanchuk is not only aiming for glory at the Paris Paralympics this summer but also making a difference in the lives of wheelchair racers worldwide. Romanchuk has launched Wheels for Change, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing access to equipment for those interested in the sport.

Romanchuk, a champion wheelchair racer who won the 400-meter T54 and a bronze medal in the marathon T54 at the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021, understands the challenges faced by wheelchair racers, particularly the high cost of racing wheelchairs.

Wheelchair Racer Daniel Romanchuk's Wheels for Change Initiative Aims to Empower Athletes

"If a kid comes home from school and wants to try out for the track team, you can head to your local running store and, 100 bucks later, they're all ready," Romanchuk explained. "But for a wheelchair racer, it's a very different process."

A basic racing wheelchair costs around $5,000 and is custom-built, with a lead time of up to a couple of months. This can be a significant barrier for aspiring athletes.

Wheelchair Racer Daniel Romanchuk's Wheels for Change Initiative Aims to Empower Athletes

To address this issue, Wheels for Change will have inventory for chairs of different sizes that can be loaned out while athletes raise money and order their own. Romanchuk said the organization will also provide training and equipment maintenance guidance through videos.

Clif Bar has stepped in as a supporter of the initiative. Romanchuk credits them for encouraging their athletes to give back to their communities and helping Wheels for Change with funding. Romanchuk hopes to loan out between eight and 12 chairs initially.

Wheelchair Racer Daniel Romanchuk's Wheels for Change Initiative Aims to Empower Athletes

The Paralympic Games in Paris will take place from August 28 to September 8, and Romanchuk is preparing to represent the United States. However, he emphasizes that his ultimate goal is to create opportunities for wheelchair racers beyond his own athletic career.

"I feel like it's my duty to give back and help the next generation of wheelchair racers," Romanchuk said. "I want to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the freedom and joy of wheelchair racing."

Wheels for Change is actively seeking donations and support from individuals and organizations who share their mission. For more information, visit their website.