London Women’s Cycle Racing (LWCR) is a new organisation set-up by a group of women cyclists from London and the South East with the intention of encouraging more women to take up cycle racing.
The group behind the league set this new initiative up to build on women’s local level racing, and address key issues such as low participation in events and difficulty for clubs in appealing to women.
“The London Women’s Cycle Racing League gives women riders of all levels an opportunity to develop their racing skills and participate in healthy local competition. Most importantly, it’s about women having fun on their bikes,” explains Maria David of Dulwich Paragon and LWCR group co-ordinator.
The league has already been met with positive reactions from the cycling community. According to Team Orbea-For Goodness Shakes rider Janet Birkmyre: “London Women’s Cycle Racing League is a fantastic opportunity for women to try racing in a friendly and supportive atmosphere, and for others simply to get some more race miles in.”
London Dynamo rider Claire Beaumont adds: “This is a great idea and helps tie together races around the region, meet other like-minded people, and more importantly, have fun! I’m really looking forward to it.”
Ten local cycle clubs will support the series throughout 2010 and is welcoming further affiliations. “By joining the League, clubs are encouraging women’s racing in a practical way,” adds Liz Rice of London Phoenix and LWCR group co-ordinator. “They can also use our logo to publicise their commitment, which should help them attract more women members.”
Surrey League organiser Keith Butler sees it as a chance to increase the numbers of women participating in his events. “We welcome any initiative that brings more women into racing. Road racing isn’t that gentle a sport, but our remit is to get women on board gently by putting on races for new racers. We are very happy to see a league which does that.”
There will be 12 events from March to August, including circuit races, road races, time trials, and crits. Find out more at www.londonwomenscycleracing.com
