Following on the success of last year, London Women's Cycle Racing League (LWCR) has announced a second series of races for 2011. Founded in 2010, the League aims to encourage keen female cyclists in the London and South East area to compete in cycle racing.
The League, which is open to all women from beginners to elite riders, emphasises that you don’t need to be Victoria Pendleton to be queen of the track!
New to the League this year is the inclusion of pre-season open club "Meet and Greet Rides" where women cyclists can meet experienced female racers and find out more about women's cycling in London. Details and dates will be announced soon on our site.
Last year’s league winner Maryka Sennema commented:
"Signing up for your first cycle race can seem intimidating, but in truth the race itself is such an exhilarating experience it's well worth the effort. The most nerve-wracking part is lining up at the start with all the other riders -- but once the race begins, all the nerves are forgotten and you're in the thick of it! I'd encourage any women who enjoy road cycling to give it a try, and the London Women’s Cycle Racing League is a great place to start.”
LWCR coordinator, Maria David, said:
“The League came about as a way of encouraging more women to take up cycle racing locally in a friendly environment. This will encourage more women to take up cycling and feeds into British Cycling's plans to get women out on their bikes. As well as competing, it gives female cyclists the opportunity to meet like-minded women. We want racing to be fast and furious, but also fun and sociable!”
Women cyclists can affiliate to the League via their clubs or as individuals.
Here is a list of the 2011 League race dates where you can come and discover your inner Emma Pooley. Check out the calendar page for more details and links to each race.
9th April: East London Velo Spring Rumble, Hog Hill, Hainault
20th April: Team Quest women's series, Hillingdon
8th May: Surrey League/Dulwich Paragon, Goodwood
10th May: Crystal Palace summer evening series
21st May: SE Regional Champs, Loxwood, Sussex
2nd June: Hog Hill summer evening series
11th June: Smithfield Nocturne, London
26th June: London Dynamo Time Trial, Richmond Park
2nd July: Inverse Racing Criterium, Hillingdon
31st July: Surrey League/London Phoenix Road Race, Henfold Hill, Surrey
9th August: Crystal Palace Summer evening series