Achilles Athlete Publishes Children’s Book to Help Youth Realize What’s Possible
Suraj Chaitan of Achilles NYC is a dedicated handcyclist who balances graduate school, a career in rehabilitation, and a full schedule of training and racing. A regular at Achilles workouts, he is also a mentor to newer athletes and recently published a children’s book focused on disability and access. But beyond the miles and medals, Suraj’s story is about something bigger: access, mindset, and showing others what’s possible.
Read a Q&A with Suraj below.
How did you first get involved with adaptive sports and handcycling?
“Growing up, my focus was just living what I thought of as a ‘normal’ life. I focused on school, work and my friends. I didn’t really explore sports or adaptive recreation.
I had always wanted to try handcycling, but like a lot of people, I didn’t have access. The equipment is expensive, and insurance doesn’t cover it. After an injury that kept me out of work for a while, I finally decided to go for it. I found a used handcycle online, bought it, adjusted it to fit me, and started riding in the park with my family. I loved it!
I actually showed up to an Achilles workout one cold day in Central Park and just gave it a shot. At first, I wasn’t super consistent with it. I’d come and go, but eventually I got more involved.
My first race with Achilles? I signed up thinking I’d do a 5K… and somehow ended up doing a half marathon. It was freezing, there were hills, I struggled the entire time, but I finished. After that, I couldn’t wait for the next race. I was hooked.”
Why is access to adaptive programs and organizations like Achilles so important?
“It’s important because without Achilles, a lot of people wouldn’t have the opportunity at all. Not everyone can afford a handcycle or specialized equipment. But at Achilles, you show up and they make it work. There’s always a way to get you involved, no matter your ability. Nobody is ever turned away here. That kind of access changes lives.”
How has Achilles impacted your life?
“The community! It’s not just a program, it’s like a family.
Everyone genuinely cares. The staff, the athletes and the volunteers. We all check in on each other. It’s not just about showing up to practice and leaving. We hang out, we support each other, we push each other to be our best selves.
And for me, it’s also about giving back. I’ve mentored other athletes, helped people get comfortable on the bike, and seen firsthand how much it can change someone’s confidence and independence.”
You’ve clearly made a big impact on others. What does that mean to you?
“That’s honestly one of the best parts! I’ve worked with people who thought their life was over after an injury. And I’m like, ‘no, it’s not over. You just have to do things differently.’
Through Achilles, I’ve seen people get stronger, more independent, more confident. I’ve seen them go from unsure to showing up three times a week. That kind of transformation is everything. It’s so much more than a fitness program. It’s a place where people realize what they’re capable of. Once you see that in yourself and gain that confidence, you don’t ever go back.”
What inspired you to write your new book?
“I’ve always wanted to write a book. One day, during a snowstorm, I just decided to figure it out. I started researching, got completely locked in, and spent hours working on it nonstop. Now it’s published and I want to turn it into a series.
The goal is to show kids, especially those with disabilities, what’s possible. A lot of families don’t even know what opportunities are out there. If I can help change that, even a little, it’s worth it.”
Suraj’s new book, The Adventures of Little Suraj, is available now. Get involved with the Achilles and Citi Bike® Adaptive Cycling Program here.
