More women than ever before are taking up cycling and female entries to this year’s London-Paris 09 Cycle Tour are at their highest level in the event’s six year history.
London-Paris 09 Ride Captain Rachel Przybylski
Credit for Photo: Michael Blann
Female membership of British Cycling has risen by 25 per cent in the past year. Women’s cycling is the fastest growing category within the sport and 44 per cent of women members now hold a competitive racing licence.
London-Paris 08 cyclist Antonia de Barton-Watson
Credit for Photo: Michael Blann
Those figures are reflected in the entries for London-Paris 09. Of the 280 cyclists taking part, 25 will be women. Known as the “professional event for amateurs”, London-Paris 09 covers 520km in three days and is the closest the amateur cyclist can get to the Tour de France experience, with rolling road closures and full logistical support.
London-Paris 09 Ride Captain Rachel Przybylski
Credit Photo: Michael Blann
London-Paris 09 Cycle Tour Ride Captain, Rachel Przybylski said: “Last year I was struck by the strength and determination of the women participants. On the ride, there was no lipstick and high heels. We save that for the celebrations when we get to Paris. But as our photos show, we can be glamorous and what better way to promote women’s cycling? The boys at London-Paris have welcomed us and they say we have a positive impact on the peloton. I am proud to be part of the event again this year.”
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