Visually impaired cyclist races towards 2016 Paralympics

Shawna Ryan is going for gold.

Ryan just started competitive para-cycling last year, but the Saskatoon cyclist already has her sights set on making the Canadian team for the 2016 Rio Paralympics.

"I think if I can put in another really solid two years of training, I think I have a really good chance (to make the team)," she said. "I'm really starting to believe that."

Ryan isn't letting her disability get in the way of her athletic dreams. Legally blind, Ryan can only see 20 over 200 while using visual aids.

"I still see, but not enough to bike independently," she said. "That would just be unsafe for everyone involved."

Para-cycling is slightly different than regular cycling. The sport is performed on a tandem bicycle, with a sighted 'pilot' navigating and steering in the front, and a blind 'stoker' in the rear, providing the power.

"With tandem cycling, you're part of a team. And I really like that," she said.

Strong chances, says coach

Ryan's coach, Frank Matus, said her progress has been very impressive.

Matus is a head coach for the Saskatchewan Cycling Association.

He's watchedRyan practicefor hours every week, and says she never complains.

"She does all her workouts," he said. "The only time she doesn't do her workout is when her kids are throwing up with the flu, or she's sick herself."

Matus said Ryan's rapid development is only sort-of surprising.

"Yes, (it's surprising) in that usually it takes 10 years to develop a world class athlete, and no, because she's just that dedicated. She's been a real joy to coach."

Ryan hopes to attend a Cycling Canada national training camp in Arizona this spring. After that, she'll be heading to nationals in Quebec, and hopefully, some international competitions as well.

She is also looking for volunteer pilots to help her train throughout the year. Anyone interested can contact the Saskatchewan Cycling Association.