After much anticipation – they’re finally here! The Total Women’s Cycling Awards for 2016 will take place at the Cycle Show in Birmingham’s NEC Centre on Friday September 23.
The winners will be 100 per cent reader voted -and you need to submit your votes by Monday 12 September for the chance to see your nomination pick up a gong on the night.
The winners will be 100 per cent reader voted – and you need to submit your votes by Monday 12 September for the chance to see your nomination pick up a gong on the night.
READ ABOUT ALL THE CATEGORIES HERE
Voting consists of a shortlist, made up of some of the brands the TWC team and our contributors think are doing a great job for women. However, there is also an ‘other’ box where you can fill in your own recommendations. Every vote will be counted – so you don’t need to stick to the shortlist!
This said, we think the brands on it are mighty fine suggestions – here’s who they are, and why they’re there…
Red Bull Foxhunt
The Red Bull Foxhunt has quickly become a mountain bikers “must-do” event. Back for it’s 3rd year, the mass start downhill event takes place in a new location in Eden Valley.
Leading such an iconic women’s event is none other than record breaking elite downhiller, Rachel Atherton, who has just been crowed World Cup Champion for 2016. Rachel and her team of sponsors host an event like no other which sees over 150 women being chased down a mountain by the world champ herself.
What sets this event out from the others is that it isn’t just about meeting, greeting and riding with the World Champ, but it’s a wonderful experience and opportunity for female shredders to get together for some fun and riding.
Rapha 100
Launched in 2004, Rapha has quickly secured themselves a sterling reputation for delivering performance wear for hobby cyclists, and professionals alike.
Last year it was announced that Rapha would be providing the new Canyon//SRAM professional women’s team their kit for the year, and all we can say is “wow”. Certainly a kit to be admired, Rapha really outdone themselves.
In the spirit of riding and all things fun on two wheels, 4 years ago Rapha launched the Women’s 100 event. A global gathering of women to ride 100km of their own route choice to promote women’s cycling and commradery. Year-on-year the event has been a massive success with increasing numbers of women taking part.
Ride the Night
This night-time ride event has become so popular, that women from all over the globe travel to take part in order to raise some serious funds and awareness for three big cancer charities: Breast Cancer Care, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action.
Ride the Night takes place in our nation’s Capital city from 21:00 onwards which sees thousands of women kitted in pink high-vis to tackle a 100km route. This epic event raises millions for deserving charities who work hard supporting victims and families of those with cancer.
Entries are already open for next year’s event on Saturday May 27th 2017, so get your entries in now.
Air Maidenduro
Another women’s only event for the lovers of dirt and descents. The Air Maidenduro launched its first event this year with a gnarly enduro race in the famous hills of Innerleithen, Scotland.
Organised by passionate mountain biker, Lynne Armstrong, Air Maidenduro had massive support from industry leading female brands, Flare Clothing Co and Juliana Bicycles. The 3 stage enduro race saw women of all skill levels come together from around the country to socialise and ride for a day of ultimate mountain biking.
The success of the event, and positive feedback can only mean one thing, it’ll be back next year… we hope!
Cycletta Rides
These female only sportives have been running since 2011, and gaining a lot of momentum ever since. Supported by professional athletes such Olympian Victoria Pendleton, Cycletta Rides provide an opportunity for women of all ages and skill level to choose a distance to cycle, and raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Distances can vary from 20km to 1050km with events throughout the country and calendar. They are perfect for beginner sportive riders, and great challenges for those with more experience.
Cycletta Rides have quickly become an annual calendar landmark for being well organised events with great routes, plenty of fun and worthwhile causes to cycle for.
Daisy Chain Events
Another women’s only ride for the shortlist is the Daisy Chain Event. This is a sportive ride that takes place in the stunning rolling landscapes of mid-Wales – but the group also organise MTB guided rides and led rides.
The the sportive, there are four distances to choose from which promise fun and challenging routes to really your legs going. Daisy Chain Events make every effort to welcome newcomers and create a fun atmosphere on ride day with tea, coffee and cake along the way.
Alongside the main ride event of the year, Daisy Chain Events work tirelessly to host MTB guided rides and smaller road rides throughout the calendar.
Ladies of the Lake
Ladies of the Lake is organised by Alan and Alison Brenton who aim to provide a relaxed sportive atmosphere inspired by the amazing Tuscan adventure L’Eroica.
The women’s only ride is now in its third year with the routes changing and lengthening due to rider demand. The organisers cater for all skill levels, but work hard to ensure every rider has an enjoyable and challenging ride.
The Ladies of the Lakes ride skirts around the beautiful lakes, so you can take in the gorgeous scenery. Organisers promise you can ride any bike you like, wear any kit you like, and that the food will be fantastic!
Two Wheels and a Piece of Cake
We spoke to two inspiring women who set out to create a women’s only sportive ride with a feminine touch earlier this year.
Two wheels and a Piece of Cake host female friendly events with all the usual things you’d expect from a sportive ride (sign-posted routes and full mechanical support on all routes)- along with delicious homemade cakes, plenty of tea, bunting and good cheer.
What more could you want – women’s only riding hosted by women with plenty of tea, cake and giggles? The perfect combination for a great event.
Other
Have we forgotten your favourite one? Write it in the box to nominate it for the Best Women’s Cycling Event.
After much anticipation – they’re finally here! The Total Women’s Cycling Awards for 2016 will take place at the Cycle Show in Birmingham’s NEC Centre on Friday September 23.
The winners will be 100 per cent reader voted – and you need to submit your votes by Monday 12 September for the chance to see your nomination pick up a gong on the night.
READ ABOUT ALL THE CATEGORIES HERE
