mountain bike

 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-england-berkshire-54259186

Before watching the video, ask what do you see in the photo? What is happening? There is something different about this mountain biker, can anyone guess what it is?

Xavier is blind; he has less than 10% eyesight. After struggling to get a job Xavier decided to pursue his love of biking; he posted videos online and was approached by companies who offered to sponsor him in shows. He now hopes to go professional.

 

In the video above Xavier talks about how his eyes work differently; he has albinism which means his eyes let too much light in, and he also has nystagmus which causes his eyes to shake. Because of this Xavier walks each route before using his bike and then remembers turns, jumps and where roots, rocks or branches stick out.

 

“Sometimes I just have crashes but there’s not much I can do. I’m very committed to the sport; I love what I do, and a few crashes aren’t going to get in my way.”

 

Xavier hopes he can encourage others with disabilities to get on their bikes.

 

-        In the film Xavier tells us about how his eyes are different. How do you think he feels about his eyes? Does he seem sad or upset? Do you think Xavier is proud of who he is? How do you know?

-        When Xavier started mountain biking, how do you think he felt?

-        What do you think Xavier’s family said when he told them he wanted to start this new hobby? Why didn’t they stop him?

-        When he walks each route, how do you think he remembers where everything is?

-        Do you think he forgets sometimes? What happens then?

-        How do you think the other mountain biker’s treat Xavier?

-        “Sometimes I just have crashes but there’s not much I can do” why doesn’t Xavier give up when he crashes?

-        “a few crashes aren’t going to get in my way.” what does he mean? What kind of person is Xavier?

-        Why is this a story of hope?

-        What can we learn from Xavier?

-        Why is this about No Outsiders?