Category Archives: Cycling

Sweat Pledge

Posted in 2017, Sweat Pledge by

I’ve been thrilled recently to be invited to be an ambassador for a brand new website, which aims to encourage people to be more active.

Check it out – Sweat Pledge.

There are already some fantastic pledges out there, and it’s really exciting to make and receive shout outs from other athletes on the site. There’s lots of plans for future developments including blog posts and events so it’s fantastic to be in at the start.

What’s really amazing is that as the site grows, you can see if you inspire people – I’m stoked that already 2 people have been inspired by me. By me!

There’s also gear! And it’s gorgeous! But you’re also asked to submit photos of you being sweaty!

Look out for an event coming on 30 September – we’re aiming to get 10 people who have never ridden 50 miles before to do just that!

The more of us on there, the more awesome it will be so why not sign up, then head to my profile and give me a shout-out so I know you’re there?

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This Girl Can. Episode 2

Posted in #ThisGirlCan, 2017, Cycling, Nottingham Girls Cycle by

It’s a couple of years since we made the first This Girl Can film so I’ve been delighted this summer to be invited back to participate in episode 2.

What’s great is to see some new ladies taking on the Notts Girls Can banner.

There’s some fantastic new women showing off some brilliant and exciting activities – things like hula hooping and circus skills! It all looks like so much fun and it’s a campaign I’m incredibly proud to be a part of.

And I’m most proud that a couple of my beautiful co-stars, Debbie and Sarah-Jayne, have come so far in their cycling journeys and somewhat humbled that they named me as their inspiration!

Watch it here – This Girl Can – it’ll be online a couple of months or so I’d imagine.

Fail not Fail

Posted in #ThisGirlCan, 2017, Cycling, LEJOG, Nottingham Girls Cycle, Queen Bess by

Today I planned a long bike ride after work and failed. 

I wanted to do a 26 mile loop from work to home but turns out I’m not quite ready for it. Shoulder is fine but my wrists and elbows aren’t. Even my legs don’t feel great. Was feeling a bit despondent, then remembered a conversation I’d had with Kajsa Tylen about how failing and if you accept what is and view it as a learning the mindset is a whole lot more positive.

Unfortunately, I’d forgotten to start my Garmin so at the moment of failure I couldn’t actually see what I had managed. I credited myself with around 12 miles. But fortunately, technology is a wonderful thing.


Here’s what I learned:

  • I actually cycled 17 miles so significantly the furthest since my surgery
  • I probably need to spend a couple of weeks doing more regular, shorter rides, just to get my elbows, wrists (and bum!) back in order
  • I remember how quickly I have improved before and know I can do this again
  • I have a fabulous, beautiful friend in Tricia, who not only volunteered to cycle with me but also rescued me (I knew she was fabulous and beautiful already to be fair)
  • It feels a whole lot better to take this approach than beating myself up about it
  • I should always remember to take photos on a ride, even when it doesn’t go to plan as I regret it when I don’t
  • I wholeheartedly deserve the cherries I’m currently tucking into