KENDAL, United Kingdom (December 2, 2024) – A heartwarming documentary exploring the transformative power of cycling debuted to a sold-out crowd at the Kendal Mountain Festival’s Bike Night. Rider Resilience – The Film captivated audiences with its inspiring stories of overcoming adversity through the strength and unity of the cycling community.
Narrated by legendary rider and advocate Martyn Ashton, the film centers on the life and vision of Nils Amelinckx, founder of the non-profit Rider Resilience CIC. Amelinckx’s journey, along with the deeply personal accounts of fellow riders Rachael Walker and Sam Rice, highlights how cycling can provide hope and healing during life’s most challenging moments.
The documentary delves into Walker’s experience of using cycling to navigate the emotional pain of pregnancy loss, while Rice recounts how the sport became a lifeline as he coped with his father’s suicide, personal struggles with depression, and substance abuse. At the heart of the film is Nils Amelinckx’s own story: diagnosed with advanced bowel cancer at just 30 years old, he found solace and strength in cycling, photography, and writing, ultimately sparking the global Rider Resilience movement.
Supported by sponsors including ORTLIEB, DMR, 7mesh, and Lyon Equipment, the film celebrates cycling as a source of both physical endurance and mental resilience. Beyond highlighting individual stories, it underscores the collective strength of the cycling community in supporting its members through life’s toughest challenges.
Rider Resilience CIC continues to champion these ideals, promoting the mental and physical benefits of cycling while inspiring others to find empowerment on two wheels. The overwhelmingly positive response to the documentary is a testament to the enduring power of resilience, connection, and the shared love of cycling.
