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Over 800 women joined Olympic Gold Medallist (and Strictly Come Dancing star) Victoria Pendleton MBE at Cycletta Cheshire this weekend.
The women gathered at a misty Tatton Park, with competition winners treated to a private breakfast with Pendleton, who then took to the Cycletta stage to offer some words of encouragement to all the riders. 40km or 55km routes were on offer on the day, as were Treat Stops to help fuel them and – at the finish – the infamous Cycletta PamperZone, where all women could take advantage of massages, nail painting and the unique Helmet Hair Remedy Centre.
Cycletta launched in 2011 designed to encourage more women to get into cycling and address the imbalance in male/female cyclist numbers.
Pendleton said: “I’ve been involved with Cycletta since it started with just two events in 2011. I am so passionate about this series and the unique opportunity it gives women to feel comfortable and excited about getting on their bikes. It’s amazing to see how much Cycletta has grown, with events now taking place all over the country.
"There are many reasons why women should get out on their bikes, whether it’s to keep fit, to socialise or of course, like so many women here today, to raise money for a good cause like Macmillan Cancer Support. Sometimes cycling events can feel intimidating, particularly if you haven’t been on a bike for years and that’s exactly what Cycletta aims to change. So many of the women here today are completely new to this, which is what makes these events so special.”
Pendleton was also joined by Capital Radio DJ Carla Kompany and West End actress Jessica Lawlor, both cycling for Macmillan Cancer Support, the official charity partner of Cycletta.
Kompany said: “I’m really sporty, I used to love playing football and still play with the boys in the garden, but I haven’t ridden a bike since I was a child! I forgot how much fun it is and it’s been such a great day meeting all these women along the way. I’m really glad to be able to help raise awareness of Macmillan and all the great work they do for people affected by cancer.”
Head of Challenge Events at Macmillan Cancer Support Craig Fordham, added: “Macmillan is delighted to be the Official Charity of Cycletta. To have high profile women like Carla and Jessica joining in and supporting our cause is fantastic. We’d like to thank everyone who has raised money and supported Macmillan in the event and we’re looking forward to many more Cycletta’s around the country next year.”
Cycletta is part of the Human Race group.
Registration is now open for Cycletta Cheshire 2013 and many more Cycletta Events across the UK.
