SPOKHAND x DEAFLYMPICS - Interview of Lindsay Buchko (USA, Cycling Road)

Sep 4, 2025

Introduction – Meet the Team

Hello, my name is Lindsay Buckho, I am the team captain.

Hi, I’m Courtney Skjveland.

I’m Brittany Skjveland.

These three talented athletes are proudly preparing to compete at the Deaflympics 2025 in Tokyo, bringing visibility to women’s cycling and the Deaf community worldwide.

Preparation – Training for the Deaflympics

Dedication is at the heart of their journey:

Six training days each week
1 to 4 hours per day, depending on intensity
Weekend sessions stretching up to four hours
And of course… races, the essential test of their progress

Through consistency and hard work, they build not only strength and stamina, but also the resilience needed to perform on the international stage.

Communication – Gestures on the Road

For Deaf cyclists, communication goes far beyond words. Their unique system of signals ensures safety, teamwork, and strategy:

Observing behavior and adapting to group dynamics
Supporting each other in small groups through rotation and drafting
Using clear gestures: a hip signal to follow, or a flipped arm to indicate fatigue

This visual language becomes their shared code, allowing them to compete equally and effectively against the best in the world.

Message – Inspiring the Next Generation

“The goal of the Deaflympics is to inspire young female cyclists, regardless of age. You can continue for as long as I have.”

Their story is a reminder that passion, discipline, and perseverance have no limits. The Deaflympics 2025 is more than a competition, it is a platform to inspire women athletes and the global Deaf community.