Thailand hosts Jimmy Pelletier World Tour cycling stage

Thailand

Paralympian’s cross-country ride promotes inclusion and traveller safety

The Tourism Authority of Thailand welcomes Canadian Paralympian Jimmy Pelletier as he begins the Thailand leg of his global cycling project. The handcyclist launches Stage 5 of the “Jimmy Pelletier Cycling Ride – La Randonnée Jimmy Pelletier,” marking a multi-week journey designed to highlight inclusion, accessibility and responsible travel.

Cross-country ride through Thailand

The Thailand stage runs from 14 February to 1 April 2026. The route begins at the AFS Thailand office in Bangkok before continuing across the country. Following completion of the Thailand segment, Pelletier is scheduled to travel onward to Morocco on 3 April to commence Stage 6 of the 13-stage world tour.

The initiative raises awareness and financial support for Adaptavie, a Quebec-based non-profit organisation focused on improving quality of life and independence for people with physical, intellectual and autism-related disabilities. Proceeds contribute to the development of the Adaptavie Health Complex in Quebec City, a health and wellness centre designed for people with disabilities.

Inclusion and safety in focus

“Thailand is honoured to welcome Jimmy Pelletier and to support a journey that carries a powerful message of resilience, equality and global solidarity,” said Denduen Luengcheng, Executive Director of Advertising and Public Relations at the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

She emphasised that Pelletier’s journey aligns with Thailand’s broader tourism strategy. Under the “Trusted Thailand” framework, authorities continue working with public and private sector partners to strengthen safety standards, service quality and crisis preparedness across the tourism ecosystem.

Platform for global initiatives

According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, hosting this stage of the world tour reinforces the country’s positioning as a destination capable of supporting international athletes and purpose-driven events. The initiative also reflects Thailand’s ongoing efforts to communicate reliable travel information and promote responsible tourism practices.

Intercultural cooperation

Beyond its sporting dimension, the Thailand stage symbolises cooperation between Canada and Thailand. AFS Thailand, part of the global AFS network, plays a central role in supporting the local organisation of the ride.

Throughout his stay, Pelletier will engage with local communities, cycling groups, AFS volunteers and programme participants. His presence is intended to foster dialogue on diversity, accessibility and equal participation.

Athlete and advocate

Jimmy Pelletier’s career combines elite sport with advocacy. After a car accident at age 19 left him paraplegic, he competed at the Paralympic Games in Turin in 2006 and became a member of Canada’s handcycling team.

He has since undertaken high-profile endurance challenges, including summiting Mount Kilimanjaro by handbike and completing a 7,200-kilometre cycling journey across Canada.

Through his annual charity cycling event and international projects, Pelletier continues to use sport as a platform to promote inclusion and support Adaptavie’s work.