Hello MWABA,
Join us for tandem biking, hiking with Achilles in Catoctin, a camping trip in Shenandoah, and more!
Tandem Biking
· Sign up here by Tuesday at 8 p.m. for our Thursday night ride from Eastern Market and our Friday night ride from Bethesda: https://forms.gle/a3fC438hzv9aH8m89 Note that we’re doing a joint ride with Achilles on Thursday, June 19th from Bethesda, and our June weekend ride will be on June 22nd from Bethesda.
· A group of blind and sighted tandem cyclists based in Alexandria has been riding on Tuesday evenings for over ten years, based out of the home of Bonnie O’Day and Bob Hart. The group meets at 5 p.m. and rides start at 5:30. Bonnie organizes the group, which is currently looking for additional sighted captains to join their ranks. If you’d like to participate or learn more about the group, please email Bonnie at bonnoday.
· Please join MWABA for Open Streets DC at Capitol Hill on Saturday June 28th, 2025! The event is from 9:00-3:00 and we will be tabling and offering tandem demonstrations. There will also be live hourly programs in yoga, music, and dance accessible to all ages and abilities. Please sign up at the link below if interested in volunteering with us at this fun event: https://forms.gle/u5gVLZqPA6E2rAPz7
Goalball
· We aren’t having Goalball practice on June 14th, because we’ll be at a tournament in New Jersey.
Catoctin Hike
· MWABA and Achilles are doing a joint hike on Sunday, June 29th at Catoctin Mountain Park, which is about an hour from DC. We’ll meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Medical Center metro. We plan to do an out-and-back hike (about 3.5-4 miles) to Chimney Rock, which is a fairly strenuous hike, but we can offer easier options for those who prefer that. Sign up here: kevin.andrews94
August Shenandoah Camping Trip
· We’re heading to Big Meadows Campground in Shenandoah National Park on Friday, August 22 for a weekend of car-assisted camping, hiking, campfires, games, stargazing, and unplugged community time. This is a two-night trip (Friday to Sunday), not a local overnight like Lake Fairfax—it’s about 2.5 hours away, one-way, without traffic. Because of that, we’re asking everyone to only sign up if you can commit to the full weekend.
· We’ve reserved two group sites (D167 and D163), which gives us space for up to 30 people and 6 vehicles. The campground has potable water, flush toilets, and coin-operated showers, making it a great setup for both experienced campers and first-timers. We’ll share pickup points, carpool plans, and gear needs as the date gets closer. If something changes and you can’t come, we’ll just ask that you give us a heads-up as early as possible so we can offer your spot to someone else. We’ll aim to hold a quick Zoom call closer to the date to finalize logistics.
· Please fill out this form to help us start planning.
Other Activities
· Get Ready for the PURSUIT OF HEALTHINESS! Brought to you by the NFB Greater Alexandria Chapter & Virginia Association of Blind Students, teaming up to bring you a one-of-a-kind day focused on YOU—your movement, your mindfulness, and your wellness. And yes… it’s going to be TOTALLY AWESOME!
WHEN: Saturday, June 14th | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
WHERE: Lyon Village Community House, 1920 N. Highland St, Arlington, VA
COST: $20 (includes a light lunch!) Send payment via Zelle to NFBVGAC1 and email Renee at reneefvaldez to reserve your spot. REGISTER BY: June 11.
EVENT LINEUP:
Stars & Stripes of Cardio – led by River, pro dancer with the Washington Wizards!
Self-Defense Workshop – “Repping” Independence led by Sensei Shu Amun
TeamBuilding “Liberty through Alliance” led by Renee Valdez
Cardiovascular & Blood Pressure Screenings
Hydration Station – United States of Hydration
· Adaptive Rock Climbing with Catalyst Sports: Catalyst will have adaptive rock climbing at SportRock Alexandria on Sundays from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on June 22nd, July 27th, and August 24th. Greater D.C. | Catalyst Sports
· Tired of the IRL adventure? Are you seeking a truly immersive and unique role-playing experience? Look no further than The Hungry Dragon Cafe, a new Dungeons & Dragons program with a remarkable twist. The Hungry Dragon Cafe is proudly run and operated by a blind business owner. The Dungeon Master is offering a one-of-a-kind D&D setting that focuses on rich narrative and deep character interaction. For a small fee, you can join a dedicated group of players and delve into extensive, professionally crafted campaigns that will challenge your creativity and teamwork. This is more than just a game; it’s an opportunity to experience the world of D&D in a way that emphasizes imagination and collaborative storytelling. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the world of tabletop RPGs, The Hungry Dragon Cafe provides a welcoming and engaging environment for all. To learn more about the exciting opportunities that await and to connect with the passionate owner Teresa, please reach out to her directly at teresa. The group meets in person every other Sunday afternoon.
Thanks and see you out there!
Metro Washington Association of Blind Athletes (MWABA)
Sports and fun for everyone! https://gomwaba.org