(Posted 9:30 a.m., May 30)
Local deaf-blind athlete wins silver medal in tandem bike event
By Fred Sherwin
Orléans Online

With the change in weather to warmer temperatures, Kevin Frost is now taking all of his sporting activities outside. He recently finished his winter calendar in late April with a silver medal performance in tandem bike road racing while attending the Défi Sportif AlterGo in Montreal.

The event is one of five Para-Cycling activities put on by Cycling Canada, Frost does his best to attend as many as possible.

"This year's field of tandem, para athletes was very strong, it was very exciting to earn a silver medal," admitted Frost. "In the time trials we were cycling at around 40-45 kilometres an hour just to qualify for the final heat. To finish second we had to go all out for the last lap with speeds over 65 kilometres an hour. It was exhausting but well worth the effort when we crossed the finish line."

Kevin Frost competes in the tandem bike event at the Défi Sportif AlterGo in Montreal with his pilot. François Mellet/Photo

Frost has one more biking event to attend this spring when he travels to the Quebec City region to participate in the Canadian Championships. He will be accompanied by Lewis, his loyal and lovable service dog who always provides guidance and companionship.

On the downside, Frost will have to rely on a new driver to guide him down the road.

"My pilot for the Défi Sportif AlterGo has moved to Calgary so I'm searching for another driver," Frost sighed. "I've been put in contact with a fellow from Montreal who has previous tandem bike racing experience. It's going to be a big change but optimistic the transition will go well."

The affable, deaf-blind athlete also practices speed skating during the winter but like most Canadians around this time of year loves to step outside and enjoy the great outdoors.

With the sun and longer days comes Frost's passion for golf. He's been hitting the links at the White Sands Golf Course & Practice Centre courtesy of owners Chris Muldoon and Tara Ellis. The facility offers Frost all the amenities needed to help improve his game.

Frost easily fits into the category of "golf nut" as he drives, chips and putts ball as much as he can or the weather permits.

"I really appreciate what Chris and Tara have done for me, they are very kind, and recognize my situation and needs," Frost admitted.

Kevin has a full slate of golfing activities to prepare for this summer. He has been a regular on the links as he works on improving his handicap beginning with the Western Canadian Blind Golf Championships.

His first big test will take place in Winnipeg, Manitoba from July 8-12. From there, he will head to Truro, Nova Scotia in August for a couple of rounds at the Eastern Canadian Blind Golf Championship.

"The fine people at White Sands tell me I am a great ambassador for sports, all I know is that I won't let my handicap prevent me from staying active," says Frost.

(This story was made possible thanks to the generous support of our local business partners.)

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