- What made you get into cycling?
I got into cycling purely because I took up triathlon. I was a swimmer as a youngster and had always done a bit of running but had never been in to cycling. Having said that in every single triathlon I’ve done I have always enjoyed the bike leg most.
- What has been your proudest/best moment?
Last year was my first serious year in triathlon and my cycling was my main weakness when it came to racing but I worked really hard over winter on it and now I can go out cycling with proper cyclists and male ones at that and not be left behind! The adrenalin and endorphin rush after getting back from a long ride with good cyclists is the best!
- What has been the biggest challenge you have faced?
Having never been into cycling actually being brave enough to get on the bike to begin with is tough, I worried about not having the right gear, about falling off, about looking stupid and about getting lost. But all those worries are a distant memory, the main thing is you get out there and you do it, who cares how fast you are or what you look like doing it!
- Who is your inspiration, & why?
My inspirations are definitely the Brownlee brothers, the triathletes. It’s impossible not to be inspired by them, it’s not just their phenomenal ability it’s how much they seem to put into every race and how hard they can push themselves at every finish. Awe inspiring.
- What are your future goals?
My goals are to keep improving on the bike, I still have huge room for improvement. With that and continuing to work on swimming and running hopefully I’ll keep improving in triathlon and take the step up to racing at an elite level.
- What would be your one piece of essential advice to someone looking to get into cycling?
Literally just get out and do it. It’s always easier motivationally and also more enjoyable to go with someone, I used to go out for rides with my Dad at the weekend. Also try to incorporate cycling into commutes; it saves time, money and the environment. Finally no matter how much you can’t be bothered or aren’t feeling like it, I can guarantee you’ll always be pleased you did and come home feeling happier than you did before.
- What is your favourite piece of kit?
Arm warmers! The best purchase and they won’t break the bank!
- What’s your favourite thing about cycling?
One thing I love about cycling is getting to see new places, I moved down South quite recently and I got to know the area so much better through cycling. With that comes the countryside, I love some beautiful country roads to cycle down. Every cycle ride can become a huge adventure!
- And finally, as it’s women in sport week what do you think is the biggest challenge for female cyclists, & how do you overcome them?
I think my biggest fear about getting out on the bike was not being good enough or worthy enough to be out on a bike. But all types of people cycle of all sizes, shapes and abilities. Get a friend (or your Dad) to go out with you, it can be a very social sport, especially if coffee and cake stops are involved!
