The 'Cycling Without Age' initiative, which originated in Copenhagen in 2013 under the name Cycling Without Age (CWA), has begun operating in the heart of Telde, specifically in the areas of San Juan and San Gregorio. This project, previously implemented in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in 2021 and Jinámar in 2023, aims to offer seniors and dependent individuals the opportunity to enjoy tricycle rides, breaking their routine and fostering social interaction.
Daniel González, the project coordinator, highlighted the positive initial reception in Telde, although they are still in the dissemination phase. An agreement has already been established with Asidma, at the San Juan day center, to conduct rides on Mondays and Tuesdays. The service, which is completely free, primarily aims to progressively expand its coverage.
“"We have already reached an agreement with Asidma, at the San Juan day center, to offer rides on Mondays and Tuesdays, and what we want is to gradually continue expanding this service, which is completely free."
Currently, rides in central Telde are offered on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with flexibility to adapt to user needs. In Jinámar, the service is available on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Rides can last between 40 minutes and 2 hours and are aimed at a wide range of users, including individuals with social isolation, reduced mobility, or functional diversity, both privately and through socio-health centers and residences.
The Telde City Council, through the councilor and CEO of Fomentas, Iván Sánchez, has expressed its support for the initiative. Sánchez emphasized the importance of transferring successful projects from Jinámar to the rest of the municipality, recognizing the value of 'Cycling Without Age' in reconnecting citizens with their environment and promoting their well-being. The parks of San Juan and the streets of San Gregorio are the main starting points in central Telde, while in Jinámar, rides start from the Gerencia and La Condesa park.
“"Since our arrival in the municipal government, we have proposed bringing some projects from Jinámar to Telde. 'Cycling Without Age' may not have much visibility, but it has always seemed to me one of the most important. With few resources, it manages to reach a sector of the population that greatly appreciates these bike rides."
The project also fosters intergenerational dialogue, as young volunteers share rides with seniors, creating a special bond. Although they regret the interruption of service on the Telde coast and at the Taliarte center due to a lack of response from the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, the goal is to continue expanding 'Cycling Without Age' to other municipalities on the island.
