Beyond the Finish Line: Ghana’s One-Armed Cyclist Defying the Odds

In a world where physical impairment is often seen as a permanent hindrance to attaining greater heights, a few individuals refuse to be bound by these limitations. They rise above their predicament, challenging societal perceptions and making bold statements in the face of adversity. One such individual is Richard Atta, a remarkable amputee cyclist whose transformative journey defies the odds and reshapes the narrative around physically challenged individuals.

Richard Atta

A Sudden Turn of Fate

Richard Atta was born whole. He was a skilled driver and an auto electrician thriving in his trade in Achimota a suburb in Ghana, but life took a devastating turn in 2001 during a funeral procession.

“An unknown vehicle plowed into the crowd of mourners who were gathered at the funeral. It was sudden; before I could flee, my left arm and ankle were crushed. My arm was mangled, and my bone was exposed. Spontaneously, I felt a slight pain, but soon it went numb. With time, a foul smell began to emanate from my wound so the doctors suggested amputation to prevent further complications” he recalls.

This decision, although necessary, left a devastating imprint on him. His limbed arm compelled him to stay in the hospital for eight months, robbing him of his independence and stability. From self-sufficiency to absolute reliance, his world was upended.

Stigma Embedded in Society

The physical loss was just the inception of an impending hurdle he was yet to be confronted with. Richard’s greatest challenge became surviving emotionally in a society that often equate impairment to weakness. The outright rejection, discrimination, and stares left deeper scars.

“I was denied access to the public bus because the conductors felt I would start begging for money once I sat in the car. They considered me not fit to be among normal people. These days left me utterly broken, like I did not belong.”

His experience mirrors findings from Ghana’s 2021 National Disability Report, which revealed that 67% of persons with disabilities face discrimination in public transportation, with 42% of persons living with physical disabilities having been denied marriage or romantic relationships due to societal bias. Richard had his fair share of heartbreak with relationships. Yet amidst this pain, the flicker of resilience remained absolute.

The Turning Point

Cycling became his safe haven. What began as a means of mobility since he was denied a seat in public transport vehicles soon became a transformative course to his career path.

“I gradually learnt how to pedal the bicycle after the incident, because I could not endure the stigma any longer. It was as if people saw my missing arm before they saw me. A friend later invited me to participate in a race at the University of Ghana-Legon. It was at this juncture my untapped potential was unraveled.”

In 2010 he officially registered with the Ghana Cycling Federation. Since then, he has participated in numerous races and has won several medals including the TV3 Tour from Accra to Ho, the Tour from Kumasi to Accra, and the 2024 All African Games where he placed second runner up.

The Silent Struggle behind the spotlight

Despite the medals and accolades, the support system he requires still remains distant. While many admire his courage and cheer him on during competitions, only a few see the battles he continues to fight. Financial constraints, especially during periods without competitions present a significant barrier.

“I was able to secure a visa to compete in Canada, but I couldn’t go because I had no funds; even the federation I’m registered with couldn’t help. I am unable to live off the money I make from the sessional competitions.” Richard divulged

This isn’t an isolated case. This is a silent reality many athletes living with disabilities, although talented, face. The systematic neglect speaks to a deeper issue of societal barriers that marginalize physically challenged individuals despite desperate attempts to bridge the gap.

A Legacy of Possibility

Richard’s aspiration extends beyond personal achievement. He dreams of representing Ghana on a global stage not just for medals but to prove that disability does not define capability. He believes disability may shape one’s journey but cannot dictate their destination. Richard’s journey is a clarion call to individuals, corporations, and government to invest in inclusive sport, pragmatic policies, and public awareness that dismantle the invisible walls holding back millions of talented, physically challenged individuals.

Editor: Elizabeth Nana Adjoa Bonney