'I put my bike up for sale - it went from St Andrews to Kenya'
BBC World
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Dr. Carrie Ruxton, a gym owner from St Andrews, found her old tandem bike, originally used by her daughter Erin before she outgrew it, gathering dust. When she listed it for sale on social media, she expected local interest but was surprised when Alice Miring'u, a Kenyan cyclist and member of Kenya's national paracycling team, reached out. Tandem bikes are essential for blind cyclists who rely on a pilot to guide them during races, yet they are scarce in Kenya. Recognizing the potential impact, Ruxton decided to donate the bike despite the logistical challenges.
The journey to send the bike to Nairobi involved coordinating with a Kenyan expatriate in Glasgow who agreed to include it in his container shipment. After months of planning, the bike arrived safely in Nairobi on Valentine's Day, where it will be upgraded and prepared for racing. Alice, who pilots visually impaired cyclists, expressed her gratitude, calling the donation "a great help."
The donation highlights the global need for support in para-sport, particularly in regions like Kenya where resources are limited. As Kenya prepares to compete at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the arrival of this tandem bike could significantly boost their paracycling team's chances. Ruxton's kind gesture not only provided a crucial tool for Alice but also underscored the importance of cross-border support and the impact of small acts of kindness on a global scale.
This story resonates with readers interested in international sports and global cooperation, showcasing how individuals can make a meaningful difference even from afar. By donating the bike, Ruxton not only helped a cyclist half a world away but also contributed to the broader movement of inclusivity and support for para-athletes worldwide.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/23/2026