I spoke to women from a selection of clubs, each with different ride formats and focus’, and there are more across the UK.
The biggest clubs I found on my travels were:
Biking Belles – Chichester and District – Rides meet in Chichester, one challenging 35+ mile ride, and one novice friendly 25mile ride on Saturday, and a faster 35+ mile ride on Sunday
The Chester Fabulous Ladies – Part of the Chester CTC, the club has a focus on endurance and touring, they have weekend rides and a midweek ride.
TEAM GLOW- Based in Manchester and the North West, rides progress from ‘A’ groups – 15 to 25 miles at 10mph, to ‘D’ groups, 50-70mph at 15-18mph. The club are affiliated to the Cycling Time Trials Association, so ladies can sign up to events as a club member.
Kent Velo Girls – Formed in 2008, Kent Velo Girls have a busy calendar of rides, and offer something for everyone from beginner to the experienced. Rides are listed as Social, Easy, Endurance, Intermediate, or Advanced, and racing training is on offer, with Kent Velo Girls taking part in road racing and time trialling.
Minet Ladies Cycling Club – Meeting at the Hillingdon Cycling Circuit in Hayes, London, Minet Ladies offer coaching to help women develop their racing skills, and maintenance help on Friday afternoon, from 12pm – 4pm. Sessions are only £2.50 and they’ll even lend you a bike and helmet if you need one.
Sunday Girls Road Club – Sunday Girls aim to provide rides for the ladies of Hull and East Yorkshire, they cater for everyone from beginners to experienced riders. Saturday rides are 25-30 miles at 12-14mph, and Sunday rides are 40-70 miles and faster or hillier.
If you’re looking for a club, and these aren’t local – take a look at the British Cycling club finder and select your region.
Find out more about Michelle Arthurs Brennan, the author of this piece here.
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