Women’s cycling history is often overlooked. March 8th is International Women’s day. To celebrate here are 6 women cyclists that we admire past and present.
1. The Tour de Force of moxie – Annie Londonderry
To settle a wager between two wealthy businessmen Annie succeeded in cycling around the globe in 15 months. A feat never previously undertaken! Leaving her three children and Husband at home she set out on a 20kg bike that didn’t even allow for freewheeling.
After travelling through places such as Paris, Hong Kong, Shanghai and San Francisco, Annie eventually reached her feat. What Annie accomplished with her bicycle in 1894-95 was a tour de force of moxie, self-promotion and athleticism.
2. The Most Powerful Woman in Cycling – Bonnie Tu
At the age of 57 shortly after completing the fierce Tour of Taiwan Bonnie Tu became hooked on the sport of cycling. After being unable to find a bike and cycling clothing that was made for her Bonnie; niece of Giant King Liu (Founder of Giant Bikes) she subsequently pushed for the creation of a women-only cycling brand.
This in turn became Liv Cycling. Years later Bonnie has set the standard for inclusivity in cycling. “If [starting Liv] was a business case, it would have never happened because the [women’s] market was so small,” said Tu. “Our gut feeling was: half of the world’s population is female – so there should be a market for it.”
3. Age is just a number – Frances Marquart
When it comes to tough, Frances Marquart takes pride of place. The Washington born Cyclocross rider has been practising her discipline for a number of years and is the oldest at a staggering 80 years of age. Regularly featuring in the Over 60s USA Cyclocross National Championships she is an inspiration to us and certainly women everywhere in cycling.
4. Creating empowering experinces – Monica Godfrey-Garrison
Founder, Executive Director and Chief Storyteller at Black Girls Do Bikes. Monica has Grown and supported a community of women who share a passion for cycling. Fueling 100 Chapters worldwide and a network of 180+ lady leaders. Monicas platform has opened up a massive door for encouraging people of all colours to engage in cycling.
“I believe that the simple act of riding a bike can be the catalyst for wonderful and empowering experiences for women of all ages. After a summer of rediscovering my love of cycling, but noticing very few women of colour riding in my town, I set out to find other women with a passion for riding bikes.”
5. Give it a go! – Laura Lawson
Roadie, MTB, Turbo trainer and Cyclocross fanatic Laura is an outgoing and motivational woman within the cycling community. With her give-it-a-go attitude, she loves a challenge and isn’t afraid to try new things. Laura sets not only a great example of what it means to be a woman in the cycling world but also is very invested in learning and evolving herself. We are very proud to call her a Cycle Revolution Ambassador.
6. Be unapogetically you – Lisa Thake (_Fat_Girl_Fit_)
Through her blog and social media, Lisa documents her journey helping to break down barriers in cycling, particularly for those worried about fitness and weight. When she isn’t inspiring the community she is encouraging others as a Level 2 British Cycling licensed coach. Her fearless approach has earned her a place in Cycling UK’s 100 women in cycling alongside stars such as Olympic athlete Laura Kenny and Lizzie Deignan. Another fantastic personality we are proud to call ‘one of ours’.
What women inspire you? 💬
