Matt Gilman: Blind Trials Rider (Video)

After losing his eyesight in 2004, trials rider Matt Gilman re-learned his skills from scratch, proving disabilities don't define what's possible.
By Jeff Barber
   Last Updated:
  2 comments
Singletracks may earn commissions from affiliate links and/or receive products from manufacturers for review. Read our editorial guidelines here.

Matt Gilman was already a bike trials rider before he lost his eyesight in 2004 but he basically had to re-learn everything from scratch. I think the text at the beginning of this video says it all:

I hope this motivates someone who has a disability, to do something which they once loved. Even with a disability you are capable of doing something that was thought to be impossible.

Watching the video you would have no idea Matt is blind. Amazing.

 
A mountain biker navigates a rocky trail along a cliff edge with stunning views of a lake and surrounding landscape in the background. The scene is illuminated by bright sunlight, showcasing the natural beauty of the rugged terrain.
Scotland
Danny MacAskill in The Slabs, Scotland [Video]
A montage of a mountain biker performing tricks, featuring multiple images of the rider on different jumps, set against a backdrop of tall trees. The text overlay reads "Brandon Semenuk REALM," with a video play button in the center.
Community
Brandon Semenuk Reimagines Slopestyle Mountain Biking in REALM Video
A mountain biker in mid-air performing a jump, surrounded by a forest of tall trees. The image features the text "wahoo FRONTIERS" prominently displayed, with a play button icon in the center. The rider is wearing a helmet and protective gear, showcasing a dynamic and adventurous moment in outdoor biking.
Community
Tahnée Seagrave on Finding Happiness [Video]
A mountain biker in mid-air performing a jump, surrounded by a forest of tall trees. The image features the text "wahoo FRONTIERS" prominently displayed, with a play button icon in the center. The rider is wearing a helmet and protective gear, showcasing a dynamic and adventurous moment in outdoor biking.
Community
Tahnée Seagrave on Finding Happiness [Video]