Published: 8 December 2011
Source: Breeze
Encouraging women to get on a bike means more than just a lap around one of Redcar’s parks for our Champion of the Month Vicky Kitching.
Vicky (on the right) sees cycling as a great way for women to enjoy some valuable ‘me time’, share ideas, and focus on what’s important in their lives.
“There’s a real feel good factor about being able to get out and be sociable with other like-minded women in a stress-free and non-competitive environment. All of my rides have ended in smiles and thank yous for giving women the opportunity to get out on their bikes,” she explains.
“As I pedal along, the women tell me their stories. It’s an outlet for them to let off steam, talk about their lives, and share ideas.”
Vicky often goes the extra mile to organise rides which offer women not just a bike ride, but a memorable experience that keeps them anxious to get back in the saddle again and again. A real innovator, she recently travelled 30 miles to lead a ride in Sunderland, taking a group of women to a local museum to try their hand at glass blowing, before hopping back on the bike for a scenic pedal home along Sunderland’s gorgeous coastline.
She’s even been known to take the train for a few miles, just to find somewhere fun and interesting to take her ladies on a ride.
“Cycling is such a social thing for many women, so I feel really strongly about helping them experience a bike in non-competitive company and attractive surroundings, whether it’s parks, forests, flat cycle routes, or places of interest.”
So committed is Vicky to helping others enjoy bikes, the 31 year-old, who also enjoys walking, rock climbing and swimming, also volunteers with Sustrans and leads local rides throughout the summer season as a British Cycling trained Sky Ride Leader.
She’s well worthy of our Champion of the Month accolade!
Go to GoSkyRide.com to find out more or join Vicky on a ride in Redcar and Cleveland.
