Newbury Road Club’s Women-only Rides got off to a flying start with taster sessions last Thursday and Easter Saturday. “We were thrilled to get such a good turnout to both events”, commented one of the NRC organisers Lorraine Murrell. “We were joined by ladies of all abilities, from beginners to triathletes, and thanks to help from our female club riders, everyone got the ride they hoped for, including the opportunity to try some hills if they wanted, with one conquering Combe for the very first time!
We rode in small groups, in line with current restrictions, and each group took in a take-away coffee stop for a chance to get to know each other”.
Our women’s club membership team is fantastic” said Lorraine, “we have a wide range of strengths across the group, from those with nurturing skills to work with the more nervous and inexperienced riders, those who have a huge amount of experience on tackling a club ride and building up stamina to go that bit further and take on the hills, to those with racing experience. We work together well, and hence are well equipped to welcome riders of different abilities!”
The feedback speaks for itself. “We are so lucky to have such a supportive team to encourage us and support us with our cycling goals!” said Nicole, one of the riders. Another, Maureen added “I really liked being part of a women’s peloton, thanks for making me feel so welcome” and Emma who joined Thursday’s ride commented “It was a well organised ride and I loved riding up Combe for the first time!”
There has long been a gender gap in the UK between male and female cyclists. Lack of confidence is cited as a main reason. “Our Women’s Rides provide a super opportunity to meet like-minded women”, explained Lorraine. “You don’t need to be fit, you don’t need a wardrobe full of lycra, you don’t even need to know where you are going. You just need to enjoy discovering new places, making new friends, and gaining the confidence to achieve things you never knew you could. Three years ago, frankly I was too nervous to get on two wheels. Since joining Newbury Road Club, I have cycled the length of France and Italy - who knows where cycling can take you? And then there’s the special friendships which have been formed through cycling, there’s always someone to make you smile!”
NRC Women’s Rides pick up again on the 29th April and 9th May with more scheduled, and additional ad-hoc rides and events, and a mechanical workshop will be planned in throughout the summer. Full details of rides are on our events calendar, or get in touch to come and join us.