KYTX CBS 19 Tyler Longview News Weather SportsTyler boys ride cycles for the first time

Tyler boys ride cycles for the first time

TYLER (KYTX) - Riding tricycles and bicycles are a "rite of passage" for every kid and some children with special needs miss out because a standard bike isn't an option. But that's changing for kids in East Texas. CBS 19's Amanda Roberson explains how East Texas businesses are helping make it happen.

Tyler AMBUCS , which stands for American Business Club, is made up of professionals in the community. Their goal is helping people with disabilities gain independence, and that's exactly what happened for two Tyler boys Wednesday.

Seven year old Leonel Tarango and five year old Zachary Tyron are peddling for the first time.

Since Tyler AMBUCS started 11 months ago, it has donated four AmTrykes to kids like Zachary and Leonel. The tricycles cost between five and six hundred dollars.

"It's really exciting with this kind of program," Socorro Taragon, Leonel's father explained. "And I hope he enjoys it. I enjoy seeing him do better. Thank you."

To qualify, each child must be screened by a therapist to make sure they're appropriate for the tricycle. Since these two boys fit the bill, they are now having the ride of their life.

"I like to ride it," Zachary said. "It goes back and forth and it goes really fast."

The tricycles aren't only giving the boys independence, but letting them build core and upper body strength. Both boys said they plan on building their strength and ride bicycles in no time. When they get those new wheels, their AmTryke's will be donated to other children in need.

Tyler AMBUCS was created about a year ago. They branched off from the Longview AMBUCS, which has given away hundreds of AmTrykes. The groups also build wheelchair ramps for people at their homes.