Some may think female-only events are patronising towards women. If Cycletta South’s anything to go by, that’s far from the case. Their event on Sunday September 11 proved the perfect chance for women to try out a new sport at their own pace, with friends or individually, without any pressure.

Small groups were set out at well-spaced intervals for the 40km ride – an ideal distance for new cyclists like me – with no overcrowding or bottle necking at the start, within the grounds of Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire. The event was well marshalled along the whole route, with someone at every junction making sure we avoided the traffic, while motorbikes and a van stopped to help anyone with any technical problems with their bikes; nice to know it wouldn’t have been too long if we got a puncture!

The two feed stations provided a chance to replenish energy with treats and drinks, as well as chat with other riders and the Olympic gold medallist and Cycletta ambassador Victoria Pendleton, who signed autographs, posed for photos and offered advice. The only downside of the stops was that they were just before the big climbs, making it slightly harder to get back into the rhythm before attacking the hills.

The encouraging signs around the route allowed us to easily chart our progress; best being ‘Queen of the Hill’ at the top of the challenging Bison Hill at the very end of the route, with most riders breathing a very large sigh of relief when they had made it to the top – whether they cycled or walked up!

The route was mostly quiet although occasional fast traffic made us remember we were cycling on open roads, which may have been a little bit daunting for those with less experience. Most of the roads were in relatively good condition although, like all cyclists in Britain, we experienced our fair share of potholes and gravel. No complaints though, simply another factor to add to our challenge, although signs to warn of the cattle grids would have be a bonus.

The route was well planned out and challenging, yet manageable for new riders, whatever your fitness and experience. The sense of achievement after the climbs was a buzz, while the downhill and flat sections gave the opportunity to pick up speed or simply enjoy the scenery.

With the threat of bad weather hanging over us, we were relieved the rain stayed away and it was only the strong winds that posed an extra challenge.

One down side was that spectators also had to pay to enter Whipsnade Zoo, albeit for a reduced rate of £15, if they wanted to watch from the start/finish.

But, overall, Cycletta proved a well organised and relaxed event for women of all backgrounds, regardless of cycling fitness or experience, to enjoy the challenge of taking two wheels to open road through the British countryside. According to the organisers, 75 per cent of riders, me included, were taking part in their first cycling event.

It may have only been my second ride on the Boardman Fi Road Comp – my test machine from RCUK – but, with 40km ticked off, I’m now planning something altogether tougher.

Cycletta North, which starts from Tatton Park, Cheshire, takes place on Sunday October 2. More details at www.cycletta.co.uk