MEET JESS - 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.

Jess, 24, signed up to take part in Etape Caledonia this year with her friends from University. We asked her about her journey to the start line.

How did you get into cycling, and how has your journey been so far?

Like most people, I first got on a road bike in lockdown of 2020. I had injured myself so had to try out other sports, and my mum is a triathlete and couldn’t wait for me to get started. Since then I have completed eight triathlons and fallen in love with getting on my bike and riding outside.

What do you enjoy most about cycling and how does it make you feel?

Cycling on a sunny day in Norfolk makes me so happy – riding in the countryside just has a calming effect. I love cycling with friends, my way of multitasking exercise with socialising.

Why did you sign up for Etape Caledonia 2024?

My friend Sian loves a challenge and we all thought it would be a good idea to celebrate after finishing our medical school final exams this year!

How do you balance your passion for cycling with other aspects of your life, such as studying, family or friends?

Cycling works as multitasking – go with a group and you can socialise at the same time! It’s always hard to fit lots of things in – sometimes I find the spontaneous rides are the best!

Who is your role models and why?

My answer will always be my mum. She honestly is legendary. She has been doing triathlons for five years now and recently qualified for Team GB in her age group to race in Madrid last year. She is, and always has been, incredibly hardworking, incredibly loving and always kind. I know she is always my number one supporter and my favourite training buddy.

What is your biggest achievement?

I am so proud of myself for completing my first standard distance triathlon in 2021. I was recovering from surgery prior and didn’t have much time to prepare. I remember having lots of hurdles, from pool closures due to COVID to injuries, and I was so scared I wouldn’t be able to do it.

As a female cyclist, do you face any specific challenges or obstacles in the cycling world?  How have/do you overcome them?

This is tricky. Naturally my male friends are just faster than me on a bike. It would always make me nervous signing up for a group ride as I was worried about slowing people down. Most of the group rides I go on are a no drop ride – which makes me feel better.

Can you share a particularly memorable moment you've experienced while cycling?

One of my favourite rides involves crossing a ford, where in the summer we jump in the cold water for a break before getting back on our bikes and continuing. Super refreshing!

Are there any female cyclists who have been inspirational to you personally?

Not famous – but I have come across so many encouraging people that have made the sport less daunting and made it about getting outside and getting moving, which is now how I view cycling!

In your opinion, what changes or improvements could be made in the cycling community to better support and encourage female cyclists?

More female only group rides, somehow trying to get ride of the stigma of cycling being a men-only sport!

What advice would you give to other women who are interested in participating in Etape Caledonia or other cycling events?

My dad says to me “Jess, Nike.”, which he means “Jess, just do it”, like their slogan. You never know if you dislike something until you try. I hated cycling as a child - but as soon as I was on a road bike I loved the fast feeling.

My other advice would be that it’s okay to have a hobby that is just for joy. You don’t need to be amazing at everything you do if it gives you joy.

What are your goals or aspirations as a cyclist, both in the short term and the long term?

For me, I just want to keep getting on my bike, getting outside and keep exploring.

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?

It’s a chance to show ourselves that we are capable of anything we put our mind to.

Thank you Jess for sharing your story and journey with us, we can’t wait to see you in May.

If you’re thinking of joining Jess and Sian at Etape Caledonia 2024, you can find out more and sign up here.