Pendleton Back In The Saddle With Cycletta

Olympic gold medallist Victoria Pendleton was joined by over 800 women at Cycletta Cheshire on Monday morning; the latest event in a series of women-only bike rides around the UK.

The cyclists gathered on a misty morning at Tatton Park, with a group of competition winners treated to a private breakfast with Victoria, who then took to the Cycletta stage to offer some words of encouragement to all the cyclists.

Victoria said: ‘I’ve been involved with Cycletta since it started with just two events in 2011. I am so passionate about this series and the unique opportunity it gives women to feel comfortable and excited about getting on their bikes. It’s amazing to see how much Cycletta has grown, with events now taking place all over the country.’

‘There are many reasons why women should get out on their bikes, whether it’s to keep fit, to socialise or of course, like so many women here today, to raise money for a good cause like Macmillan Cancer Support. Sometimes cycling events can feel intimidating, particularly if you haven’t been on a bike for years and that’s exactly what Cycletta aims to change. So many of the women here today are completely new to this, which is what makes these events so special.’

Also joining Victoria on the ride were Capital Radio DJ and wife of footballer Vincent Kompany, Carla Kompany and West End actress Jessica Lawlor who were cycling for Macmillan Cancer Support, the official charity partner of Cycletta.

Craig Fordham, head of challenge events at Macmillan Cancer Support added: ‘Macmillan is delighted to be the Official Charity of Cycletta. To have high profile women like Carla and Jessica joining in and supporting our cause is fantastic. We’d like to thank everyone who has raised money and supported Macmillan in the event and we’re looking forward to many more Cycletta’s around the country next year!’

Victoria led the crowd of ladies towards the start line and began setting them off from 9am, cheering them on before joining them on the route herself.

On returning to the venue the Cycletta PamperZone awaited, where all women were treated to massages, nail painting and the unique Helmet Hair Remedy Centre.

Cycletta, part of the Human Race group, is a unique series of women-only, mass-participation cycle events. 

The events take place on safely managed roads and provide a fitness challenge whilst remaining achievable and accessible to women of all abilities.