MEET AMY - INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating some of the fantastic women who are taking part in Etape Caledonia 2024. Hear their stories about how they started cycling, their role models and advice for other women who are interested in getting into cycling.
Amy, from Glasgow, has signed up to take part in Etape Caledonia this year and we asked her about her journey to the start line.
How did you get into cycling, and how has your journey been so far?
I started cycling just before Covid. I was inspired by my brother-in-law, who had just completed the Glasgow to Edinburgh Sportive. It looked very rewarding to receive a medal at the finish line after many hours of cycling.
After seeing his medal, my husband and I thought maybe we could do it too! From then on, we took things seriously and started to invest in all the cycling gear, bikes, clothing - everything you need in the cycling world.
As a beginner it was a little scary cycling on the road at first, but after a few times I got used to it. Gradually over the years I became obsessed with cycling, and for the last 3 years I have been taking part in cycling Sportive events.
What do you enjoy most about cycling and how does it make you feel?
You can see a lot of beautiful scenery, some views are breathtaking!
I also enjoy cycling because it gives you that feeling of freedom, keeps you fit and active, makes you feel good, plus saves a lot of traveling time!
I used to work a lot of long hours and whenever the sun was out my husband and I would cycle to work, plus a further 20km before we headed home. We don't have a lot of time to train because of work, we can only train after work, which is sometimes midnight!
It's also great training as a couple, he's my motivation and I'm his motivation. Yes, there are days we can't face training, either because of work load, trying to fit in time at the gym and looking after the kids, but persistent is the key to keep active.
Why did you sign up for Etape Caledonia 2024?
I signed up because I want to continue to collect medals and show my kids that taking part in a sport can be fun, exciting and very rewarding. This event medal will be an addition to my growing collection!
How do you balance your passion for cycling with other aspects of your life, such as work or family?
Cycling is part my self care routine. I love exercising, and I try and fit the gym in my schedule, plus either an indoor or outdoor cycling session (depending on Scotland’s weather) at least three times a week.
It doesn't affect me looking after my two kids and fitting in work too. It is possible to have a balance of all. I want to be stronger and fitter, and I want to be able to ride faster like some female pros.
What is your biggest achievement?
I think my biggest achievement was in my second Sportive. I blasted through King of the Mountain and reached the top, I was well chuffed with myself! I thought I wouldn't be able to make it without pushing up the climb. Thank God I managed.
Can you share a particularly memorable moment you've experienced while cycling?
One of my favourite memories was when I was trying to use clipless pedals for the first time. My partner was patiently trying to teach me how to clip in and out while I cycled up and down on the street in our estate. I toppled over many times and eventually decided I’d stick to flat pedals, but the process was really empowering for me because I was able to enjoy looking daft as part of a learning process, rather than seeing it as a failure and something to be embarrassed about.
Another favourite memory was riding with a really close female friend who cycles. Last year we had the opportunity to ride together – a rare thing since she lives in Canada and I live in Scotland! It meant a lot to be able to share one of my favourite routes with her, especially as it turned out to be my longest ride ever at that point.
Are there any female cyclists who have been inspirational to you personally?
Some of my inspiration definitely comes from the amazing professional female cyclists out there. I remember watching the first ever Paris-Roubaix Femmes and feeling the power of all the riders there through the screen. Lizzie Deignan’s ride was incredible and I got really emotional as she crossed the line. Seeing the determination of these women reminds me that we can overcome all sorts of adversity to participate in the sport that we love, at whatever level.
In your opinion, what changes or improvements could be made in the cycling community to better support and encourage female cyclists?
Having more females meet up for a coffee ride or social ride and share advice together. It doesn't matter what shape or size you are, we should all come together and boost each other’s confidence. Lift each other up. Have a laugh together.
Having a night group a few times a week would benefit some women who are scared of cycling on the road, as it could help boost their confidence when the roads are quieter.
What advice would you give to other women who are interested in participating in Etape Caledonia or other cycling events?
I would say start training a few months before the big day and come prepared so you will enjoy your journey a lot more - there’s nothing worse than having cramp or not having enough layers on!
Dress according to the weather and hope for some dry weather on the day (lol)!
Bring a lot of snacks for the ride like gel bars, cereal bars, gummy bears - these will all help and also ease any leg cramp if you have it. I would normally bring 4-6 rice balls with some chicken and flavouring and roll into a stick form. Plus I’d usually drink 2 bottles of water.
What are your goals or aspirations as a cyclist, both in the short term and the long term?
My goal is to take part in all the bike events. I'm hoping I can still continue this in the long term as I'm obsessed with cycling.
What advice would you give to young women who aspire to pursue their goals and overcome gender-related barriers?
Train hard! Don't have too be competitive, set yourself a time scale to finish a bike event, whether it’s 30k, 50k or 100k.
Don’t race, keep a steady pace at the start so you can finish off the ride smoothly.
The day you don’t want to train is the day you force yourself to train harder and stronger. There is no such thing is failure.
Lastly, what does International Women's Day mean to you as a female cyclist, and how do you think it impacts women in sports overall?
International Women's Day is a powerful, special day to celebrate to all women.
Women are the epitome of courage, hope and life. Each and every woman is unique. Women who play sports have higher levels of confidence, self esteem, and lower levels of depression.
We loved hearing more from Amy and can’t wait to welcome her to Pitlochry on 12 May.
If you want to join Amy and thousands of other incredible cyclists at Etape Caledonia 2024, you can sign up here.