How did you get into cycling?
I never used to like cycling until it was forced on me! And I certainly couldn’t fathom the idea of riding for over an hour!
Following serious knee surgery my surgeon said the only thing I could do for 6 months was cycle. This coincided with Covid, so with gyms closed, the only thing I could do was cycle. What started with laps around the outside of Bushy Park progressed to meeting up with friends & trying out some Surrey hills on a heavy, clunky hybrid. Having decided cycling was actually quite fun I bought a road bike & my cycling journey accelerated, in more ways than one.
What’s your favourite place to cycle?
Anywhere with a vineyard. Preferably early morning during veraison (grape ripening) or early evening during harvest (picking the grapes off the vines).
Have you got any cycling goals this year?
Having got into racing last year & achieving Cat 3 I would love to try to push for Cat 2. 40 points may be a bit much in my first year as a Cat 3 but a good target. I’m also looking forward to trying out the various different crit circuits as well as regional road races.
What’s your go to ride with the Waldy Wheelers?
Always the Surrey Hills which we are lucky to have on our doorstep. With routes changing every week there are always new road, hills & challenges. Plus a hill always offers the extra spice of competition to see if I can keep Fred on my wheel rather than behind his.
What would you say to someone thinking of joining the Waldy Wheelers?
The club has a lovely family feel. The members are welcoming, genuine, keen to offer a helping hand & this is extended well beyond your time in the saddle. Socials, tours, a million WhatsApp groups really contributions to the community vibe.
The variety of routes the club offers allows riders of all recreational abilities to have a great Sunday morning spin. With a racing arm developing this will be continue to push on the ability & diversity of the club.
What do you do when you’re not cycling?
Somewhere between family & wine. Often both especially as three of our family wines are named after my three children.