British Cycling’s Breeze network has introduced new longer distance cycling events to the ever growing programme for women’s cycling.
Starting in October, Breeze Challenge Even
The events will operate in partnership with Coventry City Council, Preston City Council and Pennine Events, with the first planned rides taking place in Warwickshire and Lancashire.
Find out more about the Breeze Network
Fresh from riding the first ever Friends Life Women’s Tour, Breeze ambassador and Olympic silver medallist, Lizzie Armitstead lent her support to the Breeze Challenge Events launch.
She said: “The Breeze network has done fantastic work over the past four years creating an outlet for women of all abilities to come together and share in the joy of cycling.
“Breeze Challenge Events are the perfect next step for those who want to train and prepare for something different and will be an important platform for showcasing that women’s cycling is on a par with the men’s field at all levels.”
The announcement comes with women’s cycling on the up as British Cycling continues to implement its strategy to get one million more women cycling by 2020. The Breeze network has been a key factor in this success according to fellow Breeze ambassador and track cycling World and European medallist, Jess Varnish.
She said: “It’s great to see so many women across the UK who have taken up cycling through Breeze and are continuing to ride and encourage others to do the same. It’s fantastic that their participation means a new event series can be introduced and I’m sure the Breeze champions and participants will welcome it with open arms.”
The introduction of Breeze Challenge Events is designed to be the next leg of the journey for many women who have developed their confidence and cycling skills through Breeze rides and are looking for an exciting new challenge to train and prepare for.
There will be plenty to keep families, partners and children entertained during both Breeze Challenge Events, while all riders can look forward to a relaxing massage and fun yoga session to follow their ride.
Everyone who finishes the rides will receive an event goodie bag with a dedicated training plan for those looking to gear up for their first 50km, along with access to Breeze network tips and advice to get the most out of the day’s fabulous riding experience.
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