There’s plenty coming up at BellaVelo over the next few weeks! First up is our Women’s 100 ride on Saturday 12 September — sign up on TeamApp if you’d like to join us.

We’re running two new-joiner rides on 13 and 19 September, which are a great chance to come along, meet some other riders and get a feel for BellaVelo. Both are available to book on TeamApp.

Helen is also running three coached skills sessions, covering cornering and descending (10 and 15 September) and bike control and confidence skills (13 September). These sessions are a fantastic opportunity to build confidence and develop your riding skills, so take a look on TeamApp and book your place.

Have you got tubeless woes? No more! Join us on 7 October for an evening all about tubeless, with a talk and demo to help you get to grips with tubeless (see the event details below).

Looking further ahead, the calendar is filling up nicely, with the Ride of the Falling Leaves on 10 October, One More City ride (dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness) on 24 October, a ride to Winchester on 28 November, and our Mince Pie Ride on 12 December.

And finally, our kit order is in! We’re expecting it to arrive mid-October, so there should be plenty of BellaVelo kit out on the roads this autumn.

🚴 Upcoming rides and events

Here’s the calendar to the end of the year – save it to your phone so you don’t miss out! A reminder that our social café ride takes place on the first Saturday of every month. These are welcoming, socially-paced rides (around 22–24 km/h) for all members, but particularly suited to newer members or anyone returning to fitness. Meet at Colicci in Richmond Park at 8.10am for an 8.15am departure (with a Lions Gate pick-up at 8.35am also available). Sign up on TeamApp!

Save the Date: All About Tubeless

By popular demand, we’re delighted to announce an evening all about tubeless at Giro, Esher, on Wednesday 7 October. Save the date here on TeamApp.

📍 Giro, Esher
🕖 Doors open: 7pm
🔧 Talk & demonstration: 7.30pm–8.30/9pm
🚪 Doors close: 10pm

🏆 Queen of the Mountains

Congratulations to Cath Gothard, who completed the TdFF Etape, finishing on the legendary Mont Ventoux. What an achievement! And the Ventoux adventures aren’t over yet … a group of Bellas are heading to Provence in September for a week-long cycling trip. We’ll be using the company PeakTours – a couple of spaces are still available if you want to join.

A cross-Channel bikepacking trip | by Ros Williams

What started with a Christmas message asking “Who wants to join me for a bikepacking adventure?” culminated in a week of cycling, camping, friendship, French roads, and, inevitably, a few highs and lows….!

I issued the clarion call at Christmas, “Who wants to join me for a Bikepacking adventure, cycling London to St. Malo in August?” My invitation was picked up by five intrepid Bellas and at 6am on July 26th, after months of planning routes, campsites, kit and cafés, we rolled out of Richmond Park. Only then did it hit home: we’re actually doing it. And it was thrilling!

Here’s a brief resumé of our trip. Highs, lows, blood, sweat and tears… and laughter!

Highs

Jo: Lunch at the picnic table on the cycle track, Day 4 (next time, let’s bring a tablecloth). Seeing Mont St Michel for the first time. Actually leaving Newhaven; at one point I thought we’d be camping there that night. Cycling through those lovely French roads, so little traffic and not nearly as many potholes as England. Actually getting to each day’s destination, and even the camping was fun.

Debbie: Company, coffee, countryside and the long sweeping descent from Vire to Mont St. Michel on pristine tarmac, under trees, in the shade, 24˚. (See ‘Lows’). Resurrecting my schoolgirl French and chatting to anyone who couldn’t get away in time. Picking up unladen bike with one hand. Fabulous cycling tan lines.

Janet: Being with a group of like-minded women on an adventure. The camaraderie that built up over a few days of cycling and camping together.

Ros: Actually doing the trip after all the talk and planning. Getting to know each other over the week. Hot showers at the end of each day. The air-conditioned boulangerie we threw ourselves into on the hottest, hilliest day.

Cadzy: Being with a great group of women! On tough rides over several days, people really open to each other. A great way to build friendship. Fabulous, family-run campsite full of animals, and delicious home-cooked breakfast for only €7.

Sophie: The feeling of being completely and utterly free; travelling each day to somewhere new carrying everything I needed on my bike; and sharing the adventure with a fab group.

Lows

Jo: Pushing my bike up a track with the panniers - it was nearly as wide as the track!

Debbie: A day of climbing in 34˚, no shade, and burning cystitis meant not being able to sit properly on the saddle.

Janet: Draping cycling kit over campsite bushes to try and dry it. Trying to ride a bike loaded for bikepacking up and down ‘technical’ gravel paths.

Ros: Saying goodbye to ‘the crew’ at the end of the trip.

Cadzy: Arriving at ‘Highs’ fabulous campsite and finding we had to cycle 5km down- then uphill to get supper!

Sophie: Snoring campmates!

Stats

Mechanicals: 1
Overheated phones: 1
Animated conversations about lunch stops: several
Total mileage London to St Malo: 297 miles / 478 km
Total elevation: 13,300 ft / 4055 metres

Looking back, I’m inclined to think that was easy. It was and it wasn’t; but we all thrived and I loved that we each had a reason for wanting to do the trip, including (whisper it) having fallen out of love with cycling. I’m glad I posted the message.

🎧 Coffee break listen + read

A great episode of Where We Ride, with BellaVelo getting a shout-out just after eight minutes in. Chapeau to Kate for the tip-off!

Also worth a read: Jenni Gwiazdowski, formerly of the London Bike Kitchen, has an excellent Substack with useful bike maintenance tips.

We love hearing about your rides, adventures, and achievements, so please keep the stories and photos coming. And don’t forget to get involved in the members chat on TeamApp!

July has been packed with adventures, and we're only halfway through! Annalisa conquered the legendary Maratona in the Dolomites, while Candida took on the stunning Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle. Back home, we've welcomed a fantastic new group of Ride Captains, opened orders for the next club kit window, and we're looking forward to this weekend’s Ride for Maureen. Read on for the latest club news, photos, and updates!

Ride for Maureen – this Saturday

This Saturday, we’ll be holding our annual Ride for Maureen in memory of our much-missed clubmate, Maureen Kenny, while also raising funds for Trinity Hospice, who cared for her in her final weeks. Riders can choose from two routes (approx. 70km or 95km), and a voluntary £10 donation is suggested. Please sign up on TeamApp.

We will finish at The Norbiton, where the club will be treating everyone to a well-earned free pizza lunch! 🍕

Whether you're riding, donating, or simply joining us afterwards, we'd love to see you as we come together to celebrate Maureen's life and support a cause that meant so much to her.

Welcome to our newest Ride Captains!

Well done to our new Ride Captains - Kathleen, Nadia, Nina, Candida, Annie, Megan, Anne, and Nadine (refreshing her skills), and Amy (not pictured), who recently completed their training with Cat and Belinda.

💙 BellaVelo x Stolen Goat club kit - order window now open!

Our club kit, now produced by Stolen Goat, is available to pre-order! The navy and light blue design pays tribute to the iconic club kit worn by Beryl Burton.

Please note that Stolen Goat sizing runs smaller than that of our previous supplier. As a guide, if you wore a medium in the Saddledrunk kit, you’ll likely need a large in the Stolen Goat range.

The pre-order window closes at the end of Sunday 9 August.

• Short-sleeved summer jersey

• Transition summer jersey with long sleeves

• Advanced seamless bibshorts

• Mitts / gloves

• Thermal armwarmers

• Ibex sunscreen arms

Maintenance workshop

Claude recently took our maintenance workshop and it’s given her a new confidence on the road!

“I very much enjoyed the maintenance workshop.

In my advanced years, I had never changed a tyre, inner tube or fixed a puncture for my sins. My obliging husband always rose to the challenge. My brave daughter on the other hand, during her student years went to many workshops and was able to do all these things. This shamed me and I thought I really ought to learn.

Being hands on during the workshop and seeing Belinda, Cadzy, and the other participants really put their back into it gave me the confidence to practise. Back home I bought a new tyre and managed to change my old, worn one. I did pinch my inner tube the first time and had to do it again. But the second time was lucky and it worked! Now the real trial would be to do it on the side of the road . . . Let’s practise on the back wheel now. Thank you for this opportunity Bellas!”

Thank you to everyone who contributed photos and ride reports this month. We love hearing about your rides, adventures, and achievements, so please keep the stories and photos coming!

☀️ Heatwave Summer Party

A huge thank you to Sheena for opening her beautiful home and garden for this year’s summer party. It was a fabulous evening full of laughter, delicious food, and great company, as well as a wonderful opportunity to welcome new members and catch up with familiar faces. Thanks to everyone who brought food, drinks and such a warm, welcoming spirit - we're already looking forward to the next one!

🌅 Chase the Sun

Massive chapeau to Aoife and Anneli, who completed the epic Chase the Sun challenge, riding from sunrise to sunset across the country. It was inspiring to see so many Bellas supporting them along the route with messages of encouragement and roadside cheers. Special thanks to Jacky, who welcomed them into her home for tea and sandwiches, giving a much-needed boost during a very long day in the saddle.

💙 Alison’s Away Day – London to Oxford

This year’s edition of Alison’s Away Day was a superb day out! Over 30 Bellas set off from Richmond Park and Lion Gate, riding through Twyford and into the beautiful Chiltern Hills before arriving at Port Meadow in Oxford - a place that held special memories for Alison and her family. The weather couldn’t have been kinder, and we spun through spectacular scenery with huge smiles.

A huge thank you goes to all our Ride Leaders for expertly supporting everyone, especially to Eleanor, whose meticulous planning ensured the day ran seamlessly. Thanks also to Ellen, Frances, and everyone else who worked behind the scenes to make such a special day possible.

🌊 Isle of Wight Weekend

We enjoyed a fantastic Bella Velo weekend on the Isle of Wight! The fun started on Friday, when seven Bellas cycled from London to Southampton through beautiful countryside, long sweeping descents, and some memorable café stops (especially the excellent Little Barn Café in Elstead!). Saturday saw two groups tackle the Round the Island randonnée, expertly led by our now-official local experts, Cat and Isabel. Glorious sunshine, cooling sea breezes, spectacular coastal views and quiet roads made for an unforgettable day’s riding.

A huge thank you to Cat Ridgway and Cat Dixon for all the planning and organisation behind the trip. The accommodation at UKSA was superb and the staff were incredibly welcoming.

🏕️ Bellas Go Glamping!

Our glamping weekend in Pett, East Sussex had a bit of everything: glorious sunshine, rolling hills, spectacular scenery . . . and some very mixed weather! If there was one thing our group became emotionally attached to, it was our weather apps.

Friday’s ride from Tunbridge Wells was wonderfully scenic and set us up perfectly for a cosy evening at the local pub. On Saturday, we got thoroughly soaked on the ride into Rye, but dried out in a lovely café there and took the time to explore the beautiful village of Winchelsea. By Sunday, the roads had dried, giving us one last chance to enjoy this fantastic corner of Sussex by bike.

A huge thank you to Candida for organising the weekend, and to everyone who embraced the conditions and made it such great fun. Judging by the windburnt noses and muddy bikes, it was an adventure to remember!

☕ Coffee break reading!

Former professional cyclist Iris Slappendel talks about life after the pro peloton, building her women’s cycling brand IRIS, and why creating community is every bit as important as designing great cycling kit. Read the article here.

Thank you to everyone who contributed photos and ride reports this month. We love hearing about your rides, adventures, and achievements — big or small — so keep the stories and photos coming!

Welcome to the May edition of the the BellaVelo newsletter! What a month it’s been, with epic rides in the Scottish Highlands and the Outer Hebrides, as well as rides and cake stops closer to home, proving once again that Bellas are always up for an adventure!

We’re still on the lookout for a volunteer to help run our social media. If you’re creative, enjoy storytelling, photography, or sharing our cycling adventures, we’d love to hear from you. It’s a great way to get involved in the club and showcase everything that makes BellaVelo such a fantastic community.

A reminder too to sign up for Helen’s coaching sessions. These 90-minute sessions are heavily subsidised by the club and cost just £5 each. They are an excellent opportunity to build confidence, develop skills, and ride stronger. Full details are available on Team App.

Upcoming Alison’s Away Day Ride: London to Oxford! | 13 June

We’re excited to announce Alison’s Away Day Ride on Saturday 13 June. Riders will set off from both Richmond Park and Lion Gate, with routes of approximately 100 km and 112 km respectively. From there, we head out via Twyford before climbing into the beautiful Chiltern Hills, enjoying stunning views along the way.

Our destination is Port Meadow, the much-loved green space near Oxford station with a special connection to Alison and her family, who used to enjoy annual family swims there.

There will be several coffee stop options en route, including Ola’s Coffee in Twyford, Wildfrog Bakehouse in Stoke Row, or the Blue Tin Farm Shop on the Chiltern Way near Wallingford, known for its spectacular views. We’ll finish at The Medley, where we can relax with pizza and well-earned refreshments by the river before heading home. Highly recommended by Alison’s son — and once a workplace for her nephew — it’s a welcoming spot with great food and a laid-back atmosphere.

For the return journey, there are train services back to London as well as the Oxford Tube coach service. Full travel details will be shared closer to the event.

Keep an eye on Team App for sign-up details.

The May Flyer | by Aoife Hulme

Having completed the shorter route of the May Flyer several times previously, a group of three of us — myself, Anneli (a fellow Bella), and another friend, Penny — decided to attempt the longer 100-mile route for the first time.

We started off with Anneli’s husband, who was riding the shorter route, and it felt a little daunting when our routes diverged at 32 km and we still had another 130 or so kilometres to go. Still, it did not feel too long before we reached the first stop at Lodsworth, 20 km later, where we stocked up on as many sandwiches, flapjacks, and bananas as we could manage.

There was then a 70 km stretch before the next stop at Ellen’s Green, which did feel quite long. However, the beauty of the route more than compensated for any thoughts of how far we still had to go. As we travelled further into West Sussex, we passed numerous Sunday afternoon cricket matches on picturesque village greens, as well as countless country pubs with glorious beer gardens. Tempting though it was to stop, we pushed on and eventually reached the second feed stop, where thankfully the jazz trio were still playing. The live music is one of my favourite things about the May Flyer, and, crucially, there was still food left.

Then it was on to the final leg and the two steep climbs of Pitch Hill and Combe Lane — although I still wonder why Combe Lane never seems to get any easier!

We reached Cobham just before 5pm, where members of SWRC were waiting to welcome us back across the finish line.

All in all, it was a fantastic day out on the bike, made even better by the fabulous volunteers from SWRC — staffing the feed stops, guiding us at all the difficult junctions, and generally delivering a superbly organised event.

I’m already looking forward to next year!

An island-hopping adventure in the Outer Hebrides | by Alice Fowles

Alice shares her unforgettable journey along the Hebridean Way, featuring white sand beaches, turquoise water, wild camping, ferries, otters, and some of the most spectacular cycling in the UK.

I can thoroughly recommend cycling the Hebridean Way, a 297 km route from the island of Vatersay in the south to the Butt of Lewis in the north. A road bike would be fine, although I completed it on my gravel bike.

The Hebridean Way by numbers

• 297 km

• 9 islands

• 5 causeways

• 4 ferries

  

Getting There

There are many accommodation options along the route, from wild camping and motorhomes to B&Bs, hostels, and hotels. Most campsites have excellent shower blocks, including kitchens where you can prepare food if you are bikepacking.

Wild camping is also an option. On Vatersay, there is a community hall with shower and toilet facilities, and many places have an honesty box where you can leave a donation. Many of the port towns also have showers and toilets — and for £1 you get eight minutes of hot water, which feels like luxury after a long day riding.

We took the ferry from Oban to Castlebay, a 4½-hour trip through the beautiful Sound of Mull. You need to book ferries in advance, and there has been some widely reported disruption to services recently. Booking is straightforward via Caledonian MacBrayne, and all ferry crossings can be booked in a single reservation.

Barra & Vatersay

It’s well worth travelling to the start of the route on Vatersay, where you’ll find stunning beaches and fascinating sites of interest, including memorials to a shipwreck and a plane crash. The route leaves Vatersay via the first causeway and heads north through Barra to Ardmhor, where you catch the ferry north.

A short detour takes you to Barra Airport, one of the few airports in the world where planes land directly on the beach. There’s also a great café, and if you’re lucky you’ll catch a landing or take-off.

South Uist & Benbecula

The crossing from Ardmhor to Eriskay is followed by a steep climb past Charlie’s Beach, where Bonnie Prince Charlie is said to have landed. Continuing north, following the blue-and-white signs, you pass through Eriskay village and across the causeway onto South Uist. The campsite at Kilbride has a café, hostel, and kitchen facilities, while the excellent Polochar Inn is just a short cycle away.

Further north, there is plenty to explore, including Flora MacDonald’s house. Birdlife is everywhere — eagles, seabirds, and wildlife galore — so binoculars or a monocular are worth packing.

Crossing the third causeway brings you onto Benbecula, where we stayed at Otters Edge in Liniclate. In Balivanich, we stopped at The Stepping Stone Restaurant near the airport, and both the South Uist Distillery and Benbecula Distillery are worth a visit.

North Uist & Berneray

Another causeway takes you to North Uist, where the scenery continues to impress with sweeping coastal views and tiny Hebridean communities. We ate lunch at The Wee Cottage Kitchen before heading to Clachan Sands, passing a Co-op in Sollas along the way.

The campsite at Clachan Sands overlooks pristine white beaches and vivid turquoise sea — one of the most memorable spots of the trip. Although the site only has running water, showers are available nearby at Lochmaddy and Berneray ports. We also stopped at Berneray Bistro, which doubles as a community shop.

Harris & Lewis

From North Uist, you cross the causeway to Berneray before taking the ferry to Leverburgh on Harris. The route north through Harris and Lewis is busier than the southern islands, although still spectacular. There are plenty of campsites near Leverburgh, though wild camping opportunities felt slightly more limited.

The port of Tarbert offers plenty of options for food and showers before the route climbs dramatically out of town and into some of the most breathtaking scenery on the trip. Crossing Lewis towards the west coast, we stopped at the remarkable Callanish Stones and Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. The route finally ends at the Butt of Lewis, which is supposedly the windiest place in the UK!

The Hebridean Way is one of the most rewarding cycling adventures the UK has to offer — combining island-hopping, dramatic landscapes, quiet roads, wildlife, and incredible hospitality.

There are endless beaches, hidden stops, and scenic detours to discover along the way, so you can be really flexible about the time needed to complete the route. There are lots of useful resources to help plan the trip: we used the Official Cycling the Hebridean Way Guide.

Curious to know more? Speak to Alice at the next ride.

Bealach Na Ba Sportive | by Claude Vergez

Epic Highland climbs, cattle grids, dramatic weather, and one of the toughest sportives in the UK.

The Bealach na Bà Cycle Sportive was a great event organised by the community of Shieldaig, a lovely village with stunning views and the place from which we departed. The event was well marshalled, with four feeding stations for around 500 participants. It is an extremely challenging ride and is considered one of the toughest climbs in the UK.

I was fortunate enough to tag along with a London Dynamo team, who turned out to be very friendly. We stayed at Coulin Farmhouse Estate, which can comfortably accommodate eight people and proved to be good value for money (£210 per person for three nights).

Some of us drove up, while others flew to Inverness and hired cars for the approximately 1.5-hour journey to the accommodation. The house is a little isolated and located at the end of a dirt road, so there is no direct cycling from the property, which was a slight drawback, but the location and standard of accommodation more than made up for it.

The ride itself was challenging, but the scenery was absolutely stunning and carried me through. As with all sportives, I found some people to ride with, and although I was slow, I was proud to complete it. Some of the Dynamo team waited and cheered me on at the finish line, which was very thoughtful.

We were lucky with the weather. I had been quite worried because there had been hailstones and torrential rain in the days beforehand, and I do not think I would have attempted it in poor conditions. Luckily, on the day, we had sunshine and dry weather, although it was quite cool at the top of the mountain. The climbs and descents are dramatic and demanding. My Wahoo showed 16 climbs in total, and after climbing the Bealach na Bà there were still 14 more to go. Many of the remaining climbs were short but extremely steep, with gradients of 15–18% in places.

There were also cattle grids and potholes to contend with. Overall, however, I thought the road conditions were good, with new tarmac on the entire main climb and much of the descent.

Glorious Gravel in Girona | by Alice Fowles

Sunshine, champagne gravel, Catalan countryside, and four unforgettable days of riding with like-minded women — Alice reports back from the inaugural women-only Glorious Gravel camp in Girona.

We spent four days based at Can Campolier, the home base of Rocacorba Cycling near Banyoles. This beautifully converted farmhouse is owned by Ashleigh Moolman Pasio and her husband Carl. The stunning 17th-century Catalan estate is surrounded by rolling hills and olive groves, making it a spectacular setting for a cycling camp.

I flew from London Stansted Airport into Girona, where I met the other riders for the 40-minute transfer to Banyoles. There were also several alternative flight options available for the trip.

We stayed across the main house and two separate buildings on the estate. All meals were included, with delicious and healthy breakfasts and dinners served at the restaurant, alongside lunches out on the routes.

Some of the women brought their own bikes, but I chose to rent directly from Rocacorba. After providing my bike measurements, I was given a brand-new Canyon gravel bike with a 1x setup and electronic gears. Despite some initial anxiety about riding a rental bike, it proved extremely comfortable and a joy to ride.

Over the four days, we rode a series of beautiful routes, with route options available on the two longer days. The rides were expertly led by Bellavelo’s own Helen Bridgman, alongside Julie Chasin and Hatty, who also helped us all improve our gravel riding skills.

The trails were incredible — winding through forests, farmland, and rolling countryside, with long stretches of glorious champagne gravel. On the third day, we rode into Girona itself and had time to explore the city, which was a real highlight of the trip.

We were lucky enough to have fantastic weather throughout, which made the scenery even more spectacular. The accommodation also featured a sauna, massages, and a swimming pool, although sadly the pool was not operational during our stay.

I thoroughly enjoyed the trip and loved discovering new trails with a group of like-minded women. I would highly recommend Glorious Gravel to anyone interested in gravel riding adventures.

Helen is hoping to organise more women-only camps in the future, and there will also be women-only waves at some upcoming Glorious Gravel events. Keep an eye on the Glorious Gravel events page for future dates and details.

Thank you to everyone who contributed photos and ride reports this month. We love hearing about your rides, adventures, and achievements — big or small — so keep the stories and photos coming!

We’ve been making the most of the sunnier weather lately, and enjoying the spectacular explosion of bluebells on our Surrey rides. Further afield, it’s been fantastic to see BellaVelo represented in Girona at the Glorious Gravel Women’s Camp, where a brilliant group of women of all abilities have been out enjoying the trails together.

📱 Social Media volunteer needed
We’re currently on the lookout for a volunteer to help run our social media. If you’re creative and enjoy sharing our adventures, we’d love to hear from you!

🥨 Weekday laps are back
Our weekday rides are back in full swing: evening laps in Richmond Park have restarted, as have early morning laps. It’s the perfect time to get back into a rhythm, so set your alarm clock and get involved! A quick reminder on ride etiquette too - please make sure any cancellations are made before 6pm, and add a note in the comments when you do, so we can keep rides running smoothly.

💯 Build to a Century
From 16 May to 4 July we’ll be running our progressive “Build Up to a Century” riding block, gradually working towards the 100-mile milestone. We also have Alison’s Away Day scheduled for 13 June.

🌿 Wild Weekender
The Girls That Ride Bikes Wild Weekender returns for its second year from 31 July to 2 August. It’ll be a relaxed and inclusive weekend of cycling, confidence-building, and community in Durweston, Dorset. All details are available on TeamApp.

🚴 Coaching sessions with Helen
Helen will be offering coaching sessions, each 90 minutes long, at a cost of £5 per session. Events are being added to TeamApp shortly, so you’ll be able book in. Sessions will cover climbing, descending, group riding, gearing, riding out of the saddle and on the drops, as well as chaingang skills.

The Club is heavily subsidising these sessions in order for members to be able to afford as many sessions as needed. With the range of skills on offer and held locally, there’s plenty of scope to tailor the offering to address any skills gaps.

Audax Report – Gently Bentley 2026

Several Bellas had a great day out on the Gently Bentley audax last month. A foggy start gave way to a beautiful day on the bike, and a well-timed unofficial stop for fish and chips around the 116km mark helped keep energy levels up and morale high. Special congratulations to Lisa on completing her first audax – a fantastic achievement, especially after an early puncture on the ride. The final section saw the group riding closely together, finishing strong into the evening with the last 35km in the dark. A lovely day on the bike, plenty of resilience, and a big well done to everyone who took part.

If you’re interested in signing up for an audax and would like to join our Audaxing WhatsApp group, drop us a line and we can send you the link.

2026 Rides + Events Calendar

Make a note of our upcoming rides and make sure you’re signed up on TeamApp here so you don’t miss out!

May Flyer | 17 May 2026

Starting and finishing in Cobham, Surrey, you can choose between two stunning but challenging routes: 100km or 100 miles. Both are fully marshalled and clearly signed throughout. Expect a brilliant event atmosphere with free HQ refreshments, musical entertainment, electronic timing, and on-course mechanical support, plus additional feed stops along the way to keep you going. All profits from the event will go directly to deserving local charities.

👉 Sign up here

💙 Club kit reminder

A reminder that if you missed out on the order window at the end of last year, we have a limited selection available online. Huge thanks to Sheena, our brilliant Kit Officer, for organising this!

It’s slowly getting drier and brighter, but we’ve been getting out regardless. Chapeau to all the Bellas who’ve braved the wind and rain lately!

We enjoyed a fantastic social evening last week, featuring a brilliant talk from Dr Nicky Keay, a leading sports endocrinologist. Nicky shared some insights into how our hormones influence performance, health, and wellbeing, with practical advice around the perimenopause, menopause, strength training, nutrition, supplements and much more.

It left us all with plenty of food for thought — alongside the incredible feast prepared by Lisa and her amazing team. Thank you Lisa for hosting us all!

The slides from the talk are available to view here on TeamApp.

🚴‍♀️💙 New club kit has landed!

Our new club kit has landed from Stolen Goat, so we’ll be in touch very soon with details on how to collect your order.

If you missed out on the recent order window, don’t worry — we still have a limited selection available online. Huge thanks to Sheena, our brilliant Kit Officer, for organising this!

🌍 International Women’s Day

• Saturday 7 March: Join us on a celebratory club ride to Windsor

• Sunday 8 March: Trip to Herne Hill for their IWD takeover celebration (see Lucy Jones’s recce post on insta!)

📅 What we’ve got coming up …

Make sure you’re regularly checking TeamApp for events, news, + chat for full details of our upcoming rides and sign-ups.

• Glamping Weekend: 5–7 June. This is being organised by Candida: there’s a TeamApp chat already live, so jump in!

• Alison’s Away Day: Saturday 13 June

• My First Century: Club rides through May and June, building to 100 miles on Saturday 4 July

• Ride for Maureen: Saturday 18 July

🗳️ AGM highlights

Thank you to everyone who attended the club’s AGM last week. It was great to see such strong engagement. We’re pleased to announce that the 2026 Steering Committee was unanimously elected as follows:

• Club Chairperson: Belinda Scott

• Vice Chair: Cat Ridgway

• Club Secretary: Frances Stewart

• Club Treasurer: Caroline Gronvold

• Club Ride Captain: Ellen Hoyle

• Social Secretary & Events Coordinators: Lisa Beck and Nadia Wilkinson

• Diversity & Inclusion: Cat Dixon

In addition, our newly elected Ride Captain will be supported by Kate Gaunt and Eleanor Doody.

Our newly elected Steering Committee! Top row, L-R: Belinda Scott (Chairperson), Frances Stewart (Club Sec.), Caroline Gronvold (Treasurer) & Cat Ridgway (Vice Chair). Middle row: Ellen Hoyle (Club Ride Captain), Kate Gaunt, Eleanor Doody (co-assisting the Club RC). Bottom row: Lisa Beck, Nadia Wilkinson (Social Sec. & Events Co-ordinators), and Cat Dixon (Diversity & Inclusion).

We also confirmed a new Honorary Member, Jen Buckley, in recognition of her valuable contribution to the club. We continue to wish Jen a speedy recovery and thank her for all she has given to BellaVelo.

The Q&A session generated lots of positive feedback and exciting ideas for the year ahead, including coaching opportunities, maintenance sessions, early morning laps, and strength and conditioning off the bike.

Please remember to check out the 2026 Calendar of Events on TeamApp for what’s coming up.

📣 Get involved!

We are still seeking a Social Media Lead: someone who can help keep our members informed and share what makes BellaVelo such a special community. The role involves regularly updating our Facebook and Instagram channels with rides, events, and club highlights.

👉 Interested? Get in touch with the committee to find out more or put your hand up: bellavelocc@gmail.com

What’s coming up: new rides, coaching & events for 2026

We have lots of exciting plans in place to expand our riding options in 2026! Make sure you’re regularly checking TeamApp events, news, + chat for full details and sign-up information.

🚲 Getting Started Ride
We’re launching a new social Getting Started ride on the Shepperton loop, running on the first Saturday of every month. This ride is designed to be welcoming and social-paced - it’s also perfect for new members or those returning to fitness or from injury.

📅 Events Coming Up

• Glamping Weekend: 5–7 June. This is being organised by Candida: there’s a TeamApp chat already live, so jump in!

• Alison’s Away Day: Saturday 13 June

• My First Century: Club rides through May and June, building to 100 miles on Saturday 4 July

• Ride for Maureen: Saturday 18 July

🌍 International Women’s Day

• Saturday 7 March: Celebratory club ride to Windsor

• Sunday 8 March: Trip to Herne Hill for their IWD takeover celebration (see Lucy Jones’s recce post on insta!)

🥨 🩰 Early morning Richmond Park laps
Interested in fitting in a ride before work? These sessions won’t be coached, but we’ll suggest simple, effective workouts that don’t require lots of tech — or you can just meet others for an early morning spin. Days are still being discussed, with Tuesdays or Wednesdays likely. Let us know if you’re keen!

🍻 Evening social laps
Our popular summer evening rides (also known as “Spin + Gin”) may be making a comeback. Last summer we ran a relaxed evening ride once a month, ending at a pub for drinks or dinner. We’d love your feedback on whether you’d like them again this year.

📈 Coached sessions with Helen Bridgman
While we weren’t able to secure a circuit venue for a full skills day this year (they book out very quickly!), Helen Bridgman will be running a series of coached sessions in Richmond Park, each focusing on different skills. These will start once the clocks change - dates coming soon.

💥 Strength & Conditioning (Zoom) with Kate Gaunt
Our very own PT Kate Gaunt is putting together a strength and conditioning programme for members, starting around March. Sessions will be held on Zoom.

📩 Have your say

We’d love to receive your feedback on any of the rides or events above, and any ideas for this year. A TeamApp chat will be set up shortly where you can share suggestions. Members are also very welcome to organise trips or events themselves and post them on TeamApp. The Steering Committee is here to support you, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch with ideas: bellavelocc@gmail.com

Talk + Supper Social: “Hormone Health for Optimal Sports Performance” | Monday 23 February, 7pm

We are excited to have Dr Nicky Keay, a hormone health expert, speaking at our next social. Nicky is a medical doctor (endocrinology) who uses her clinical and medical research expertise to coach both male and female athletes for optimal performance.

Lisa Beck is hosting the event and we’ll be having a social supper beforehand. It’ll be a “managed potluck”, so if you’d like to bring a dish please indicate in Comments on the event on TeamApp.

🎫 Tickets are available here on TeamApp. Tickets are being subsidised by the club but capacity is limited. Please purchase early to avoid disappointment.

📍 Putney (details on TeamApp): the venue is in walking distance of East Putney and Putney BR stations, with free on-street parking and safe bike storage behind a locked garden gate.

Seen on a ride . . . “Everybody knows Ken” | by Lisa Beck

Ken holds up a note he had in his pocket and confirmed he’ll turn 85 on October 17.

Swooping out of Cobham towards Surrey and curving right on Downside Road you were likely to see him on any given Saturday waving and cheering cyclists on just before or after the bridge over the River Mole. With his bright cycling jersey, big smile and loud exhortations to “Go, go!”, it was hard to miss the waving man. He became a landmark I looked forward to. And then he disappeared.

Fast forward a year or so and you may have seen already or be happy to hear that Ken, as we now know waving man to be called, is back in situ. Aoife and I were curious about his story so we stopped recently for a chat. But it didn’t go quite as expected. As we approached he was fishing dog treats out of a pocket to give to a female jogger’s black lab. When he noticed us walking our bikes up the pavement he waved one of his two canes peremptorily, gesturing that we should be on the road.

“We’ve just come to say hi,” we told him. “Oh, everybody knows Ken,” the jogger said.

Ken’s speech is harder to follow now, and much of what he says comes through gesture and expression rather than words. Yes, he lives nearby, “just up there”. Yes, he’s married. Ken holds up three fingers. Three children? No, three wives, he said, with what might have been a twinkle in his eye.

Our exchange relied heavily on gesture - playful, old-fashioned, and unmistakably Ken. Throughout this exchange people are slowing down in their cars to wave hello and Ken is breaking off to address every passing cyclist, from those who wave warmly to those who (just the one!) give him a polished urban blank. Which led to our big question, “Were you a cyclist, Ken?” “Vroom, vroom,” he answered, making the universal motorbike revving gesture. A motorbike? No. Yes? Both? More gestures. Perhaps he was trying to tell us he was a fast cyclist? We never quite pinned it down. Yet one thing is apparent – by putting himself out there, Ken has created his own community.

We’ve been well and truly in the festive spirit this month – from the Nijinga Santa Ride to our annual Mince Pie Ride. With the solstice now behind us and the days slowly starting to lengthen again, we’re looking ahead to more joy on the road in 2026.

Thank you for joining our Christmas Party!

We kicked off Christmas early with a wonderful party. Around 35 people joined us for our Christmas party at The Norbiton, where wine flowed freely and plenty of very tasty pizzas were scoffed. It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces alongside new ones. Now in our 8th year, we wanted to take the opportunity to recognise the many achievements Bellas made in 2025 and to thank everyone for their hard work in keeping the club running smoothly. There were also a couple of special awards presented on the night.

Just a reminder that the club is for everyone, so if you have ideas or suggestions about what we could do differently, do more of, or improve, please do speak up. The AGM is one opportunity to have your say, but it’s definitely not the only one. You can share your ideas with any of the RCs or SC members. Our next AGM takes place on January 21st via Zoom.

A core group that keeps the club rolling is the Ride Captains. Whipped into shape on a weekly basis by Cat Ridgway and Kate Gaunt, our RCs commit to leading at least six rides a year. This year, our six-plus RCs are (in no particular order):

Kate Gaunt; Alice Fowles; Cadzy Tighe; Lisa Beck; Vikki Filsell; Frances Stewart; Jen Buckley; Caroline Graham; Karen Middlemass; Ellen Hoyle; Cat Ridgway; Annalisa Tedeschi; Elizabeth Whelan; Belinda Scott; Janet Coleman; and Cat Dixon.

We also welcomed two new RCs who have got off to a flying start: Eleanor Doody and Aoife Hulme.

Thanks were also given to the Steering Committee and SC-adjacent volunteers, who give up so much of their time to support the club:

Jo Davies – Membership
Cat Ridgway and Kate Gaunt – RC Captains
Frances Stewart – Secretary
Caroline Gronvold – Finance
Belinda Scott – Chair
Lisa Beck and Nadia Wilkinson – Socials
Sheena – Kit
Candida Watson – New Joiners
Theo Robinson – Newsletter

This year, there were also two special awards.

First, many of you will be aware that one of our dear members, the super-experienced rider, coach, and Zwift race organiser Jen Buckley, suffered horrific injuries one Friday in August while out on a social ride. One of the things that saved her life was the clear-headed and determined response of her fellow BellaVelo rider.

👏 We would therefore like to thank and honour Gaby Stevenson for being there and for her bravery. Taking control of the situation and dealing with the aftermath was no easy task, so a huge thank you to Gaby for her actions on that day.

The Maureen Kenny Award – “Always Inspiring”

Since Maureen’s untimely death from cancer, the club has honoured her memory with a cup awarded each year to the most inspiring Bella. Previous winners include Jen Buckley and Cat Ridgway.

This year’s worthy recipient:

• Volunteered early on to become a Ride Captain

• Pushed herself further than she thought possible by taking on the very tough One More City ride

• Is always cheerful

• Overcame injuries to get back on her bike

• Generously hosted the seaside awayday at her home

• Took on the winter training programme in Jen’s absence

👏 Huge congratulations to the inspirational Ellen Hoyle!

🗳️ AGM – Reminder

The AGM will be held on 21 January, starting at 7.30pm, via Zoom. Full details can be found on TeamApp, and an invitation link will be shared closer to the time.

This is your opportunity to have a say in your club, so please do come along!

💌 HandleBards tickets now on sale for 2026!

Looking for a last-minute Christmas present for the cyclist in your life? If you missed the HandleBards when they rolled through London this summer, then good news! Tickets are now on sale for their 2026 shows.

The HandleBards are a quartet of actors who cycle from venue to venue across the UK, carrying their entire set, costumes, and props on their bikes. They will be touring next summer with a bicycle-powered production of Shakespeare’s As You Like It from May to September, and will be in London for a few dates, including at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

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Don’t forget to save the date for our annual Mince Pie Ride to Windsor on 13 December!

🎄 Christmas Party Tickets on sale now! | Thursday 4 December, 7pm at The Norbiton
Buy your party ticket (£12) which includes pizza and drinks. Tickets sales close on 1 December — please note in the comments on TeamApp if you are vegan or gluten free (there will be lots of vegetarian options). We will also have club tees, musettes, caps, and bottles on sale, and a chance to try on samples for size of our new kit (see below).

👉 Get your ticket here.

💙 BellaVelo x Stolen Goat - pre-orders are open for new kit!

BellaVelo is delighted to offer new club kit produced by Stolen Goat. The design has not changed and we continue to have a largely navy blue kit with the light blue colourway in homage to the club kit of Beryl Burton. Whilst the designs are unaltered, the fit and fabric are however a little different, with sizing running on the small side. There will be an opportunity for you to try on some samples at the Christmas party for sizing.

As well as our classic short sleeve jersey and arm warmers, we are also extending the range to include a Transition Jersey, a mid-weight gilet with a double zip and short fingered gloves.

We are taking pre-orders for kit until 5 December, after which no more kit can be ordered until summer 2026. For sizing guidance, please see the Stolen Goat website.

We’ve also launched our new club-branded 600ml water bottle, with all proceeds from sales going to The Air Ambulance Service. The bottles can be ordered online here and collected at our social events (e.g. the Christmas party).

Your club needs YOU: can you volunteer and give back to BellaVelo?

As we approach the end of 2025 and look ahead to an exciting 2026, the Steering Committee would like to thank all our volunteers. BellaVelo simply couldn’t run without them. Next year, we’ll be looking for additional support across the club. To make volunteering easier and more flexible, we’re also open to reshuffling or sharing responsibilities for any role.

🙌 Opportunities for 2026

1. Vice Chair (new elected role)
   We will introduce a Vice Chair position, which will be an elected role, with the selection process taking place ahead of our AGM.

2. Social Media Lead
   We’re looking for someone who can regularly update our Facebook and Instagram channels to help keep members informed and showcase what makes BellaVelo so special.

3. Ride Captains
   We are always seeking enthusiastic Ride Captains to help lead our rides.

If you are interested in helping in any capacity, we encourage you to get in touch with the Steering Committee at: bellavelocc@gmail.com

❤️ In addition to our lovely Ride Captain team, here’s a reminder of the key volunteers who have helped keep the club running in 2025:

Steering Committee
Chairperson – Belinda Scott
Club Secretary – Frances Stewart
Treasurer – Caroline Gronvold
Club Ride Captain – Cat Ridgway
Social Co-ordinators – Lisa Beck & Nadia Wilkinson
Diversity and Inclusion – Cat Dixon

Non-Committee Roles
Administration – Candida Watson
Membership Secretary – Joanne Davies
Ride Vice Captain – Kate Gaunt
Gravel Captain – Cadzy Tighe
Communications – Theo Robinson
Zwift Race Team Captain – Jen Buckley
Audax Coordinator – Denise Griffin
Kit – Sheena West
First Aid & Route Coordination – Alice Fowles
Welfare and Safety – Marie-Paule Ahanda
Thursday RP Laps – Candida Watson & Anne Bradford

❄️ Winter is here! ❄️

A reminder that mudguards are now mandatory on all club rides. This year we are also making an active rear light compulsory. We advise that all riders have both front and rear lights on your bike at all times but at least the rear should be turned on for group rides.

⛑️ First Aid Courses open to members at half-price

We are running a Cycling Specific First Aid course on 30th November, from 1pm to 5pm, with Jen Craven of Wimbledon First Aid. The four hour course will be held at a club member’s home near Putney Common (details to follow), where there is car and bike parking; it is also accessible by bus or train.

The course and sign-up details are here on TeamApp.

The course gives you a three year certificate. The course fee is £45pp but the club will subsidise the cost for club members by 50%.

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📌 Dates for your diary!

• One More City Fundraising Ride | Saturday 25 October
  Join us for our annual fundraiser to support OMC. The ride will end at the Norbiton pub where you are invited to enjoy a pizza lunch on the club.

• BellaVelo Christmas Party | Thursday 4 December, 7pm at The Norbiton
  Tickets are now on sale (£12) and include pizza & drinks. Don’t forget to post your award vote for the Maureen Kenny ward! For further details on this, please see below.

• Everything You Wanted to Know about Bikes But Were Afraid To Ask | Thursday 20 November, 7pm at The Norbiton

• Full day ride to Winchester Christmas Market | Saturday 29 November

❄️ Winter is Coming!

• From Sunday 26 October mudguards are mandatory on all club rides.

  This year we are also making an active rear light compulsory. We advise that all riders have both front and rear lights on your bike at all times but at least the rear should be turned on for group rides.

• Cat Ridgway will be hosting an Introduction to Zwifting and Racing. Please comment here if you are interested.

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🏆 Whole Club Call for Nominations: Maureen Kenny Award

The Club inaugurated the Maureen Kenny Cup with the motto “Inspiring All” in 2023. Past cup holders are Jen Buckley and Cat Ridgway. The committee are now seeking nominations from members for the next deserving recipient of this prestigious award which will be presented at the Christmas party on 4 December.

Which BellaVelo has inspired you the most this year?

It doesn’t have to be someone who is faster, stronger or rides farther than you. It could be someone who’s been generous with their biking skills and knowledge and who has helped to bring you along on your own cycling progression. It could be someone who’s taken on a challenge that’s made you consider challenges for youself. Or it could simply be someone whose positive presence as a steady riding companion enables and inspires you to get out on your bike.

📩 All members are invited to submit nominations to Bellavelocc@gmail.com. Please send your nominee’s full name along with a few brief reasons why.

🗓 Closing date is 15 November.

🔧 Everything You Wanted to Know About Bikes But Were Afraid to Ask | 20 November

I love riding my bike but why does it make that funny noise? How can I keep it in good nick? What can I do to make it easier to go uphill or faster? Should I go tubeless? What happens if I get a puncture?

All these questions and more will be answered in this session! Send questions beforehand (and remember, no question is a “stupid” question!) so that we can have a candid session and answer all your questions. Chris, a peripatetic mechanic, will be the guru to answer your questions and show you how it’s done. There will be a demonstration bike on hand or bring your own. All details are on TeamApp here.

🌺 One More City Ride Report | by Cat Ridway

A group of nine Bellas took on OMC this year cycling from Pisa to Nice (and not the direct route!)

Day 1 was a gentle introduction to OMC with only(!) a 110km ride. We started in Pisa with the obligatory photo by the leaning tower and managed to negotiate Italian rush hour traffic to get out onto the open roads to enjoy some beautiful cycling next to a 16th century aqueduct. We wound our way through the Italian villages finally to Lucca where we cycled on the city walls and popped into town for coffee (we had cycled 30km).

After coffee we had the beauty of the Tuscan countryside and our first climb of the trip. A gentle 7.3km climb at 4% through olive groves and Italian Cypress lined roads (all the Tuscan cliches.) The road opened at the top to some epic views rewarding our efforts and luckily lunch was not far.

After lunch it was a gentle roll into the seaside town of Marina di Massa and a well-deservedgelato / swim in the sea. 110km and 700m elevation done.

Day 2 was a slightly wet affair to start but we rolled out undaunted by the conditions. Today was all about cycling above the Cinque Terre. We started on the coastal path and gently climbed into the hills above the famous area. At 55km into the day we took on the ‘Passo del Bracco’ climb – a 15km 4-5% Giro D’Itallia climb which again gave us some incredible views onto the colourful coastal towns. We descended to the sea and to lunch where our navigation abilities were challenged and we may have overshot it (got to get the kms in).

After filling our bellies, the second long climb of the day was a challenge. A c.14km climb at 3% but we dug deep and were rewarded with a beautiful descent and a glimpse into the day ending. Little did we know we had to conquer another ascent (a mere 3km at 7%) and crazy Genova traffic before our day was done. 160km done and 1,700m elevation.

Day 3 started off with a trip through the industrial areas of Genova which was surprisingly pretty with the coloured houses and continued when we left the city on bike paths next to the coast. We obviously decided flat was not for us (took a wrong turn) and took the higher path above the villages (the views were great). On leaving the coast today was all about going up. The first climb at c.50km was the Colle di Cadibona (9km climb at 4-5%) which we tackled like old hands. Lunch followed and then we headed into the Ligurian countryside with a lot of up and not so much down. Highlights were a surprise climb (nothing like a 0.6km 11% climb 115km into a ride). However cycling through the peaceful Italian countryside was a treat (as well as the Gelato stop at 117km) and we arrived in Cuneo which is a picturesque town in the Piedmont region of Italy. Another 160km and 1,800m elevation.

Day 4 – the Queen’s stage. We rolled out of Cuneo and through some beautiful tree lined roads gently climbing to coffee at 40km. From then on it was all about the Colle de la Lombarde and crossing the border into France. A 21km mountain pass at average 7% with stunning views which was actually closed two days earlier due to snow fall (causing hugelogistical stress on potential alternative options to get to Nice). It was a sociable climb with all the groups mixing together with some chasing PB’s and others who were inspired by photographing the ever changing scenery. The reward at the top was a beautiful smooth descent – courtesy of the fact that the TdF did the climb to Isola 2000 last year.

After a stop for lunch we rolled along the road and assembled a few km’s later. We were in the very privileged position to have been allowed to cycle through a tunnel otherwise banned to cyclist on the proviso that our support car went ahead (signalling we were part of a cycling race… who knew races stopped for coffee) and we were in a strict peloton with another support car following. It was quite the sight seeing 36 of us in formation entering the tunnel. After that excitement it was a roll down to the sea on a glorious bike path finishing with dipping our toes in the sea. A fabulous way to end an epic trip! 157km and 2,160m of elevation… Mission complete.

Thank you to BV who not only supported us all in our training for the event but also kindly donated £500 to the cause. We look forward to the OMC club ride on the 25^th October. There will be a donation asked for the ride (and the promise of the club doubling donations).

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Badger Divide Ride Report | by Ella Green

A group of Bellas recently took on the epic Badger Divide in Scotland. They took the Caledonian Sleeper train up to Inverness, cycled off road to Glasgow and made their way back from there.

Day 1 Inverness to Fort Augustus: Supposed to be the easy day but we had plenty of climbing and some pretty tough “hike a bike” sections. The route went along Loch Ness though from high up, was lovely seeing it from time to time. We had some open views of distant mountains, valleys of Christmas trees and vibrant green forests. Very lucky with the weather, 64.8km, 1,322m of climbing.

Day 2 Fort Augustus to Corrour: We knew today would be tough, starting with a 2-3hour hike up the 12km Corrieyairack Pass which resembled more of a river than a road. Wet doesn’t even describe the state of us. After a sketchy descent, the rain did ease and we dried off (thankfully). Almost forgot to mention the endless puddles and water crossings, some knee deep! The afternoon had some lovely roads and we finished riding along Loch Ossian. For dinner we ate at Corrour Station (yes the one from Trainspotting). 78.5km, 1,660m of climbing.

Day 3 Corrour to Callander: Starting with a beautiful sunrise, we knew this was going to be a biggie with 120km ahead of us. Passing some very cute highland cows and calves, up our first climb and even though it was dry, puddles felt endless but more fun in the sun and the water still ran down the tracks. We reached Loch Rannoch by midday (only 40km in) and were welcomed by some friends of friends to their beautiful home, hot tea and snacks. With 80km ahead we still had 3 climbs to go. But wow did Scotland deliver today, we had sunshine all day (arms even came out) and the views went on and on, this really was wild! One of the many highlights was a ridge ride with a steep edge about 400m above the River Lyon, followed by a ride past the hydro dam. 127km, 1,790m climbed.

Day 4 Callander to Glasgow: It rained. And do you know that a Falabella is the smallest (and cutest) breed of horse?70.3km, 971m climbed.

🔗 Ultra racing inspo!

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☀️ Last chance to grab a ticket for our “It's still summer!” party + kit sale

We’d love for you to join us for a fun evening of dinner and drinks at the home of Sheena West, just outside Richmond Park near Roehampton Gate, on 4 September, from 7pm to 10:30pm. Feel free to bring your bike: there will be ample safe space to park bikes in her garden.

There will also be a pre-loved kit sale with proceeds going to charity. Please feel free to bring along any unwanted cycling kit in good nick. Additonally, BellaVelo kit will also be available to purchase, including tees, caps and musettes.

🎟️ Tickets (£15) are on sale here. Ticket sales close at midnight on Monday, 1 September.

💙 Save the date! Ride for Maureen and Rapha Women's 100 | 13 September

We are combining the Rapha Women’s 100 with our rescheduled Ride for Maureen.
Please save the date and watch TeamApp for further details.

We kindly ask for a £10 donation to the Trinity Hospice who provided exceptional care to Maureen in her final days.

🚴‍♀️ Hebridean Way Adventure | 10 Islands, 6 Causeways, 4 Ferries!

Tara Holt just completed a stunning 297km solo cycle from Vatersay to the Butt of Lewis, bikepacking and camping along wild beaches, exploring distilleries, and soaking up the incredible Hebridean views. It had been on her watch-list for a while, and she made the decision to tackle it just five days beforehand!

• Day 0: Ganavan Sands parkrun + ferry to Barra, wild camp on Vatersay beach with monkfish wrap & raspberry cranacotta

• Day 1: Barra Airport café, Eriskay ferry, wild camp beside 13th-century monastery ruins

• Day 2: Distillery stops, eagle sightings, and overnight stay at the ferry terminal

• Day 3: Sauna by Horgabost beach, wild camp at Luskentyre under a starry sky - magical turquoise sea, vast sweep of white sand and night sky with twinkling stars

• Day 4: Harris Gin distillery, fish shack feast, stay in a restored blackhouse

• Day 5: Reached the Butt of Lewis, declined a ceilidh invite (legs said no!)

• Day 6: Calanais Stones, single-track mountains, Gaelic café attempt rewarded with cake

• Day 7: Lews Castle parkrun, saw the Lewis Chessmen, ferry to Ullapool, car sleep at The Green Welly

📸 See Tara’s full write-up, kit list, and photos on the BellaVelo facebook page

✨ Event Reports ✨

💖 Étape du Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift | by Cat Ridway

Ten Bellas took part in the first full length etape femme, riding the Queen Stage of the Tour de France Femme avec Zwift. Jen, Gaby, Nikki, Caroline, Helen, Hen, Christine, Nina, Kirsty, Nadia rode the 117km route with 3540m elevation (or the 97k shorter route with 3050m elevation) finishing up the brutal Col de Madeleine (taking a harder route than the men's tour the other week).

It was damp to start and wet again for most by the time they climbed the top of the Madeleine making it a chilly finish and descent. Gaby even stopped at a ski shop to buy emergency trousers!

It was a fantastic day though with fabulous support along the route and a great atmosphere on the course. 5,500 riders took part, with nearly a third women. They rode the route just hours before the pros came though meaning that cut off times were strict and quite punchy! Well done to all who completed the course. It comes highly recommended and is definitely worth a try if you've never entered an event like this before. The option of a shorter route and less busy closed roads definitely made it more approachable.

As well as the completing event Bellas supported the pros on the roadside of various stages and soaked up the atmosphere of this amazing event in women's cycling!

❤️ London Edinburgh London (LEL) 2025: or London Floris London | by Cat Dixon

London Edinburgh London (LEL) is a gruelling 1540km (950 miles) self-supported cycle ride across the UK, featuring a delightful 13,442m of climb – because why not! You have a mere 128 hours to complete this epic feat.

Along the route, there are 21 control points (at 14 different venues), where you'll check in and get your Brevet card stamped. These lovely spots also offer food and, if you're lucky, places to catch a nap!

According to the official LEL website, “London Edinburgh London is a test of your mental and physical resilience.” So, if things go awry, it’s up to you to fix it! That’s why planning is key — which is why I started this adventure with two left-handed gloves (don’t ask) and a hole burned into my long-fingered gloves (again, don’t ask).

This time, I was riding with Raz, my partner in crime from our tandem world record ride in 2020. After swearing I'd never do LEL again, having company was a welcome change!

Day 1: London (Writtle) to Malton (375KM)

We kicked off early on Sunday morning (3 August), heading north with thousands of riders from across the globe.

LEL is a true melting pot, attracting cyclists from all over Europe and even as far away as India, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Japan. Held every four years, it's one of the world’s greatest Audaxes.

Sunday morning felt more like a blur as we cruised through the Cambridgeshire countryside, battling what felt like a headwind no matter which way we turned! With fresh legs, we rode hard, quickly finding ourselves at the front of a large peloton, with everyone seemingly shying away from taking their turn on the front.

Our first check-in was in Northstowe, 90 km in, where we enjoyed a second breakfast before pushing on to Boston, 102 km away on the coast. This is where our love affair with chicken curry and apple crumble began, and it stuck with us throughout the ride. We pressed on to Louth (55km) to retrieve a pair of mitts I had stashed, and after polishing off my second curry and crumble of the day, we tackled the Lincolnshire Wolds.

Finally, we were greeted by the Humber Bridge — distant yet ever-elusive — before reaching Hessle. Growing up here was... an experience, and checking in at my old high school was at best, nostalgic!

By 8pm, after 14 hours of riding (with stops), we covered around 310km. After a satisfying fourth helping of chicken curry and crumble, we set out toward Malton over the Yorkshire Wolds. Night descended, and I found myself trudging up “Huggat Hill,” one of my old Sunday morning riding haunts, though this time it felt more like a slow-motion crawl.

We spotted a poor soul still miles from the next check-in with a snapped derailleur — not that we stopped to help!

Feeling a mix of fatigue and relief knowing we were nearly there, we crept up the hill from Thixendale, finally catching a glimpse of Malton's lights. At check-in, we were greeted with a Thai-themed dinner, where we indulged in yet another chicken curry (Thai style) at midnight before seeking refuge for some much-needed sleep. 375km done, legs buzzing!

Day 2: Malton to Richmond (95km) - Storm Floris

After a few hours of sleep, we woke to the chaotic onset of Storm Floris—rain pouring and winds gusting! We braved the elements and set off from Malton, instantly soaked. If there was ever a sign that conditions were grim, it was Castle Howard being closed!

We rode up and over the Howardian Hills and down into the Vale of York, we huddled for coffee in Easingwold, then navigated through Catterick, the heart of the British Army in the North (or as I like to call it, “memory lane”—as I was in the Army back in the day).

The wind made it tricky to stay upright, but after a steep climb, we finally arrived at the Richmond check-in only to be told the race had been suspended 30 minutes prior. So, there we were, marooned in Richmond, but not without chicken curry waiting for us. After a blow-up bed nap, we settled in for the announcements.

As the winds raged outside, we entered the Twilight Zone of cyclists. Trying to catch some sleep, I jokingly noted the advantages of hearing aids—Raz can pop hers out and avoid the cacophony of snoring and other odd noises fuelled by our chicken curry diet. By 3:30pm, with no movement on the race, we were told to stay put until the next announcement at 7:30pm.

Finally it was announced that the event was cancelled. On reflection it was inevitable – but at the time it was a shock. People started to ponder the future: some were planning to head home, while others decided to finish the event by riding south. We chatted including with a woman who claimed we’d been riding in front of her (as if blocking her way) think this is normally called drafting!

We even ran into Ellen, another familiar face stuck in Richmond — it was a Bella reunion!

Day 3: Richmond to Hessle (Hull) 166Km

The queue for breakfast was a sight to behold as Richmond’s check-in, meant to handle 250 riders, was swarmed by over 1000 hungry cyclists. The volunteers were incredible, transporting food from faraway Scotland to keep us fuelled.

While waiting, I spotted a man confidently strolling in a pair of his wife’s knickers – well why not! His wife (who was with him) seemed very happy about it.

After a long wait, we finally hit the road, following the LEL route back to London, though many opted to just head home. The weather stayed fine despite the winds, and we enjoyed a fantastic day over the Wolds, reaching my Mum’s place in Hull for the night.

Day 4: Hull to London (Writtle) 315km

On the final day, the mood felt like a party; with no cut-off to worry about, spirits were high. Continuing to stock up on chicken curry and crumble, we continued southward, riding withfellow cyclists to rack up the kilometers.

By early evening, we reached Northstowe, where we chatted with the amazing Emily Chappell, former Trans Continental winner. We navigated through Cambridge’s student population and headed toward our last check-in at Henham.

It was dark, and we were tired. Having bravely tried a jacket potato instead of curry, we pushed on. We crossed the finish line just after midnight, triumphant, and claimed our well-earned medals. Another epic day in the saddle!

📌 As we roll into the autumn, here’s a guide to members for how to pick the right ride for you . . .

All our Club Rides and Awaydays are led by our wonderful Ride Captains who all volunteer to give up their time and expertise to give something back to the club.

They:

• are fully trained to British Cycling standards (if not higher)

• ride with the group’s safety in mind

• are familiar with the route and may have recced or ridden it beforehand

• expect group riders to display good riding skills such as communicating in the group, maintaining a steady pace, not racing off the front, adhering to group discipline and instruction from them

• expect riders to carry essential provisions with them be that food, water and mechanical supplies

• encourage newer members on the ride.

Before posting a route on TeamApp, (especially the Ride Captains choices) they will consider the length and profile of the ride, suitable stops and get home early options (eg train stations). Thay may edit an existing ride or plan a completely new route. This all takes time.

Here’s a reminder of the BellaVelo Etiquette guide which you can find on our website

BellaVelo etiquette

• Must always obey the highway code

• Should be polite and respect other road users and always promote a positive image of women's cycling, whether wearing club kit or not

• Should go out of their way to welcome, encourage, include and support new members of the club and other women cyclists they meet

• Are encouraged to join in club and community activities contributing whatever skills they have

• Should be proud to be a BellaVelo

• Should always be punctual

• Should be able to repair their own punctures before joining a group ride

On TeamApp you will find an explanation of how the speed groups work which is reproduced in full below.

BellaVelo pride ourselves on training people to ride safely in groups and increasing members’ confidence out on the road. Primarily we are a social club and encourage our members to have fun on their bikes in a safe and supportive environment. However, we do have minimum speed requirements for club rides and ask all members to fully read and understand the ride description before signing up and feel confident that they can achieve the pace and distance.

Achieving an average speed on a ride outside on real roads is an imprecise art. Our fabulous ride captains work hard to provide members with rides that both challenge and support appropriately but pinning down what it actually means to ride in each speed group isn’t easy.

These are the categories we use to divide our club rides:

BV22 – av22 on a gently rolling route, av20-21 on hilly routes, av23 on flat routes. Riding 24-26 on the flat pace to get these averages.

BV24 – av24 gently rolling routes, av22-23 on hilly routes, av25 on flat routes. Riding 26-28 on the flat to achieve this.

BV26 – av26 gently rolling routes, av24-25 hilly routes, av27 flat routes. Riding 28-32 on the flat to achieve this.

As you can see, the terrain will affect the overall speed. Each ride should come with a short description of the route to help you understand what’s involved. If the ride is hilly we would expect a BV24 group to average a bit below 24. If it’s very flat they will probably average just over. This means if you’re generally a 24 rider you should be fine on any terrain.

However, some people find hills disproportionately more difficult (or occasionally easier) than most people. If that’s you, please consider signing up to a different speed group for that ride. For example, if you’re usually a 24 rider but find hills super hard at the moment, please choose 22 for that ride.

Another important factor to note is that in order to achieve an average of 24kph over the whole ride you need to be riding faster than this on straight flat sections. This is why you can see faster speeds at the end of each category. This is the speed we feel riders need to be comfortable at in a group in order to achieve these averages. Remember you get draft benefits in a group so if you’re a newer rider and feel nervous about achieving these speeds solo you will find that the group will run a bit faster and more easily than you’re used to.

BellaVelo club rides are all no-drop so please be considerate of the other riders in your group. Do not rush ahead if you feel you are faster than the group, or consider changing groups at the cafe stop if you are faster/slower than the group generally. Please do not hesitate to talk to your RC if this is the case.

Safety is also always our primary concern. We always ride within the highway code and will slow down if traffic requires.

Finally, please remember that your fitness, experience and enjoyment of being on the bike will vary from time to time. If you’ve had illness or injury please consider how you are rebuilding. Look for shorter, flatter or slower rides initially and move up again as you feel comfortable. A club ride of 4-5hours on a weekend is an incredibly demanding physical activity whatever your fitness level so take it steadily and increase speed and volume of training slowly.

If you would like further help or advice please feel free to reach out to any member of the steering committee.

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🌊 Away Day: Bellas headed to the coast!

What a stunning day! Glorious weather, great company, and good vibes all around as the Bellas took to the road. The day was made possible by the energy and enthusiasm of everyone involved – huge thanks to Cat R for her top-notch organisation and our route planning and recce team (Alice, Frances, Trudy, and Belinda). Special thanks also to Ellen for her wonderful hospitality, the RCs for their leadership, and of course, to all the Bellas for such strong and joyful riding. The day was inspired by Alison Dex and we celebrated with special cupcakes donated by Eleanor Doody. After Shoreham last year and Wittering this year . . . where to next year? Let us know!

Upcoming events and rides

💙 Ride for Maureen | Sat, 19 July

We’re excited to invite you to our annual ride in honor of Maureen Kenny. Please bring a friend if you’d like! We’ll finish with pizza at The Norbiton near Kingston.

The route sets off from Richmond Park, where we will allocate groups as guests are invited. To sign up, head over to TeamApp and select your preferred speed group. For those who prefer a shorter ride, there will be an option to cut across at the pinch point.

We kindly ask for a £10 donation to the Trinity Hospice who provided exceptional care to Maureen in her final days. If you're not riding with us, you can still contribute to this important cause — every donation is appreciated. We look forward to riding with you and celebrating Maureen's memory together!

☀️ Our “It's still summer!” party | 4 September

We’d love for you to join us for a fun evening of dinner and drinks at the home of Sheena West, just outside Richmond Park near Roehampton Gate, on 4 September. Feel free to bring your bike: there will be ample safe space to park bikes in her garden.

🎟️ Tickets (£15) will be on sale from 15 July.

⛰️ Mellow Jersey trip reports

Tour of Slovenia — by Belinda Scott

Six Bellas joined six other female cyclists to ride in a tour of Slovenia organised by Mellow Jersey.

The first time the tour ran was the week before under the searing heat of a central European heatwave. This barely abated during the week we rode, making the tour a challenge to say the least. Having done the recce of this tour last year, I really appreciated the level of detail that went into organising the route, the hotels and the stops en route. The heat meant we were drinking litres and litres of water everyday and throwing it over our heads/necks and backs to try and cope. Ice cubes provided by the back up van to stuff into your jersey were very helpful!

Having visited Slovenia years ago on a trip from Prague to Venice skirting the Julian Alps, I was keen to return, and I was not disappointed. The route took in vineyards in the Nova Gorica region, the lakes of Bohinji and Bled, the former being amazingly clear and a welcome stop to paddle or swim in the heat of the day before travelling into the Julian Alps. We rode through the Triglev National Park which is almost traffic free and had a cheeky 18% climb in it reminding us all of the ascent of Coombe Lane. We stopped for two nights in Kranska Gora (an Alpine resort in northwest Slovenia) which is a beautiful town with (amongst other delights) the best ice cream ever!

Climbing each day was anything between 800m and 1500m with the biggest passes being the Sella Nevea and the stunning Vsric Pass. The Vsric was built by Russian prisoners in the First World War and has 24 hairpins which also happen to have cobbles on each corner for added interest . . . This, for me, was the highlight of the trip BUT with the proviso that every day you could say the scenery was stunning, you could take photos galore and still feel you hadn't done justice to your surroundings.

We rode in two groups catering for faster and slower riders which, on the whole, worked well. We even managed to recruit a new Bella! As a vegetarian, I felt well catered for: lunch stops were pre-arranged and pre-ordered and dinners were usually at a restaurant where you could choose what you wanted. The hotels were of a very good standard with usually excellent breakfasts for cyclists. Ice cream stops were a must in the weather and we didn’t stint in trying new flavours!

Iconic climbs of the French Alps — by Jan Scott

The French Alps is on many a cyclist’s to-do list. With much excitement and some trepidation of the climbing to come, a few Bellas joined Mellow Jersey for their week in the mountains. Organised with two hotel bases it proved to be a challenging but wonderful adventure. Mellow Jersey looked after us each day, ensuring we were well briefed, well fed and fully supported each day.

Day 1! The hotel, situated in St Jean de Maurienne, is located perfectly for some classic climbs. With only 10km from base we headed up the Lacets de Montvernier, very much like a mini Alp d’Huez with 17 switchbacks and an early test for our legs. A rude awakening for some (me)! This led us into the main climb of Col de Chaussey: a beautiful quiet road with views of meadows, a lovely balcony section and an average gradient of 7% to keep you focused! After a descent and lunch we had the amazing opportunity to watch the Criterium de Dauphine peloton, complete with Pogačar, Vingegaard, Evenepoel, and van der Poel riding past at breathtaking speeds!

Day 2 was a decent day of over 2,000m climbing, including the stunning 23km Col de Glandon with its panoramic views and the bonus Croix de Fer summit just ahead. The second climb of the day up Col de Mollard became a favourite of many of us. Pretty alpine wild flowers, butterflies, fields of cattle, and no traffic, plus the reward of the beautiful descent that followed!

Day 3 was my personal favourite starting with a leg opener, namely the testing 12km Col de Telegraphe, a regular in the Tour de France! At the summit we had the chance for photos and coffee before the beautiful monster — the Galibier, at 23km (35km including the Telegraphe) with its long climbing valley, steep gradients, exposed roads, and a final 3km surrounded by snow. Many of us were moved to tears at the summit! A real achievement. The amazing 40km descent back to Bourg made every pedal stroke worth it!

Day 4 was a rest day and chance to shop or enjoy a gentle climb up picturesque Col d’Ornon.

Day 5 brought the iconic climb up Alpe d’Huez — the chance to ride in real life what many of us have done virtually. Another sweltering day in the saddle with the reward of riding under the metal archway and seeing the plaques of stage winners in the Tour de France. The last two names, flying the GB flag, were Geraint Thomas (2018) and Tom Pidcock (2022)! The finish is through the town which was a touch confusing and there is no whirling globe offering new shoes or socks as a reward! But I promise you Alpe d’Huezis better in real life!!

Day 6 and our final day saw us climb the first 4 bends of Alpe d’Huez again leading us onto a stunning balcony road with breathtaking views over the valley. We then tackled Col de Sarenne, another monster with a kick at the end. Again the weather was hot, the skies blue, the views incredible and we celebrated with an alpine picnic at the summit before the descent down the 21 bends of Alpe d’Huez — what a week!

🔗 Recommended links

• How to pack your bike for your next cycling trip

• How to prepare your bike for a multi-day cycling holiday

• 🌺 The Ride and Seek Out Adventure musette is available on the BellaVelo website in our kit shop.

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We’ve had a fantastic few weeks of riding: a big shoutout to our new joiners! Eight Bellas took on the Way of the Roses, riding coast-to-coast from Morecambe in Lancashire to Bridlington in Yorkshire. With great weather, even better company, and some brutal climbs (including a spicy little 20%-er), it was a ride to remember. Chapeau!

Planning and recce-ing is in full swing for our seaside escape to Wittering on Alison’s Awayday on 14th June. Please sign up to your preferred ride speed group on TeamApp. We’ll be enjoying a picnic lunch by the sea and catching the train home. The final route will be shared soon.

Keep an eye out for our special solstice weekend rides on 21st and 22nd June to make the most of the longest day of the year. The final weekend in June sees Ella’s amazing Bivvy weekend! Please buy your tickets now if you’d like to join.

🥨 Evening Park Laps Are Back!
Our evening laps in Richmond Park are making a return, starting Tuesday, 4 June. Enjoy the summer evenings and join us for a few chilled laps followed by dinner nearby.

The Way of the Roses

Candida writes: We had wonderful weather, great scenery, some memorable climbs - the hill out of Settle straight after lunch is not for the faint-hearted(me)! But also rolling past Ripon Cathedral as the bells pealed out, eating ice-cream beside York Minster, hearing curlews calling, posing with Eric Morecambe's statue, gate-crashing a 90th birthday party, so much fun, so much to remember.

💙 Event Report

Ride and Seek Out Adventure evening

On Wednesday 14 May, friends and family gathered at Giro for a special fundraiser in memory of BellaVelo co-founder Alison Dex, supporting World Bicycle Relief, a cause close to her heart. Winnie from WBR gave an inspiring talk on how sturdy bikes are transforming lives. She showed us how these bikes are used, carrying up to 80-100kg of water and provisions, getting medicine to people and girls to school. .

Sue Plater and Nadine Emsley entertained us with tales of their trip to Kazakstan - beautiful, remote and somewhat chilly - undertaken on mountain bikes and sleeping in tents. What an adventure! Alison’s son James spoke movingly about his self-supported trip through Chile and Peru, making lifelong friends on the way and reflecting on his grief for his mother.. He said the best way to honour Alison was to follow her spirit of adventure and live life to the full. I’m sure we can all agree on that!

Huge thanks to Alice Fowles for organising the event, raffle, and a beautiful musette in honour of Alison.

👏 Thank you to everyone who came - it was a truly special evening, which raised £2,000 for the WBR!

🌺 The Ride and Seek Out Adventure musette is now available on the BellaVelo website in the kit shop.

🔗 Recommended links

• Did you know that the light blue in our BellaVelo jersey is an homage to Beryl Burton and her club colours? If you’ve not heard of her, you can read a little about this truly amazing cyclist. Jeremy Wilson’s excellent biography is well worth a read too.

• Watch The Finisher - a documentary of Jasmin Paris’ historic 2024 win at the Barkley Marathons.

• JOGLEJOG: Dr Sarah Ruggins set a new world record for cycling from John o’ Groats to Land’s End and back

• Unbound XL: Heather Jackson smashed the previous women’s record of 22:25:15, set by Cynthia Frazier in 2022, and placed eighth overall, beating the majority of the men’s field in the process

• Ultra Trail Snowdonia by UTMB: Stephanie Case won while breastfeeding - and didn’t know she’d won until after she’d crossed the line!

  She spoke about her fairytale victory and what it meant for other mums: “I worry that stories like mine, while inspiring to some, can be frustrating or even discouraging to others,” she said. “They can paint a rosy picture and set unrealistic expectations—like new moms should be able to bounce back and win 100Ks.” Case is clear: Her story isn’t about setting a standard. It’s about expanding what’s possible, and encouraging more dialogue about motherhood. “If we were more supportive of moms in running in all kinds of ways—whether that means resting, returning to sport, or anything in between—we’d see more compassion and less judgment,” she said. “There’s so much scrutiny over how moms spend their time, and not enough space for big adventures.”

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A bike fit: is it worth it? One Bella finds out . . .

Recently I had a bike fit at RC Custom. It was on the to-do list for a long time as I’ve struggled with lower back pain for over a year. Having done bits of research and worked with a chiropractor I knew that a desk-based job had weakened my glutes and that, as a result when I cycled my lower back was doing the work my glutes should do.

As the Caledonia Etape crept closer my training was stuck in first gear. I was reluctant to go on a long ride knowing I’d just make my back hurt. I’d missed the BV “introduction to bike fitting” at RC Custom, but was encouraged by the club’s endorsement of this company and delighted to find on further investigation that they are affiliated to Richmond Cycles. So I booked a session.

Phil Ashley is very personable. He welcomed me warmly and explained the session clearly; what he’d be doing, what he’d be looking for. We had a long conversation about what my issues were, I didn’t feel rushed and nothing I said was dismissed or made light of. Phil was clear that he wasn’t medically trained but he explained what he could in terms of body and bike mechanics, and his own experiences as a cyclist and with previous clients.

In summary the session, which is three hours, was immensely enjoyable. The studio is bright and nicely laid out, there was a radio playing unobtrusively which added to a relaxed atmosphere. I had stickers fixed to most of my joints, and was filmed from all angles on my bike, set up on a moveable platform. Phil took a load of measurements and looked at handlebar width, seat, pedal, cleat positions. I learned absolutely loads and was interested to understand that most of the bike elements could be smaller for someone of my size (just over 5 foot). I instantly felt the effects of the seemingly small tweaks he made. I chose to invest in new shoes, insoles and cleats and hope to fit narrower handlebars if we can source them.

The bike fit costs £250 but only required a £50 deposit ahead of time. It is a big investment but I absolutely felt I got my money’s worth. Phil emailed me a summary of all the stats plus before and after photos. The best bit is that the measurements can be used for any future bike set up; they’re not specific to the current one.

✨ Event Reports ✨

International Women’s Day

On 9 March, a group of Bellas took to the streets of central London to celebrate International Women’s Day with a special ride devised by Lucy Jones. The route took us past statues and plaques honouring some of the incredible women who’ve helped shape history, from Mary Seacole and Emmeline Pankhurst to Ada Lovelace, Noor Inayat Khan, and Virginia Woolf. We also visited the National Windrush Memorial, the Monument to the Women of World War II, and paused to reflect at tributes to Violette Szabo, Millicent Garrett Fawcett, Agatha Christie, and Florence Nightingale.

Spring Social & Nutrition Talk

Thirty-five Bellas converged at the very cool home of Edie Lush in Acton for a team-catered supper and a nutrition talk by Jenny Powell, ex-pro racing cyclist and current sports nutritionist to Rocacorba Collective and to private clients looking to maximise their sporting potential.

Key takeaways included (and this is very much simplified):

• Sports nutrition is different from general nutrition for health; it’s about enabling your body to perform at its peak against high demands by giving it the type of nutrients it needs when it needs them.

• Fuel your body for rides with carbs. Eat before and during. Keep giving your body carbs throughout your ride, up until 30 minutes before you stop.

• Avoid fats and fibre pre- and during rides for max performance.

• But try to add some protein before rides. Jenny recommends egg white omelettes (12 calories per egg white vs 70 for a whole egg). If crunched for time pre-ride, try Two Chicks carton egg whites (a non-paid endorsement). Add here are some tips for using up the yolks!

• We all have a calorie budget each day. But your body needs and will burn the extra carbs consumed during rides. Eating enough during rides promotes endurance and will help you avoid overeating in the hours and days afterwards.

• The time to get in your proteins and fiber is after rides.

If you’d like to contact Jenny for a more personalised nutrition plan, you can reach her at Powelljenny@hotmail.co.uk or on Instagram @pdtsandc (business) or @powelljenny (personal). She is happy to offer a complimentary consultation call to anyone who wants to enquire.

✨ Thank you again to Edie for hosting and to those who brought a dish for our managed potluck buffet. We had a healthy and delicious spread that earned Jenny’s approval.

» UPCOMING TRIPS + EVENTS

💙 Ride and Seek Out Adventure evening | 14 May at G!RO, Esher

Please join us for a special evening in memory of Alison and in support of World Bicycle Relief, a charity close to Alison’s heart. We’ll hear from Alison’s son, James, who will share stories from his incredible self-supported bikepacking journey across South America. Sue Plater and Nadine Emsley will speak about their ride through Uzbekistan, and we’ll learn more about the life-changing work of WBR, bringing bicycles to communities where they’re most needed. Tickets are available via TeamApp or on Eventbrite

If you can’t make the event, you can still show your support by buying raffle tickets and be in with a chance of winning some great prizes:

🎟️ £2.50 per ticket or 5 for £10. Tickets available via the PayPal link – or via TeamApp

Raffle prizes include:

• 1 month cycle coaching with Helen Bridgeman

• 1 month nutrition coaching with Jenny Powell

• 45 min pedal technique session with Togo Head Coach at Njinga

• £50 Mellow Jersey Voucher

• 1 hour massage from Sue Plater

• Siroko women’s jersey and shorts S-M

• Sealskin waterproof gloves small

• Cook book Eat Bike Cook by Kitty Pemberton-Platt and Fi Buchanan

• 3 Camelback Steel bidons

• And more!

🔧 Bike Maintenance Course | 3 June, 7pm, The Norbiton

An introduction to bike maintenance aimed at our new members, those new to cycling, or anyone who feels they need a refresher on essential skills. This is a practical session on cleaning and maintaining your bike so you can spot early signs of wear and tear and rectify them. We will also cover mending a rear puncture so bring your bike to practise on. Please bring an old sheet or towel to put under your bike as you work and any tools you have.
📍The Norbiton, Kingston, KT2 6PW (upstairs room)
🎟️ £15 including food; tickets on TeamApp

🐟 🍟 Alison’s Away Day Ride | 14 June

Please save the date for our annual club away day to the seaside! We’ll be heading to Wittering, riding approx. 132km, with a food stop kindly hosted by a Bella. We’ll be getting the train home.

🏕️ Bivvy Weekend | 28 Jun—29 Jun

Bike camping plans are rolling along and we’ve officially booked our lovely riverside spot at Riverside Farm, not far from Horsham! We’re planning a Saturday night dinner at the Firebird Brewery, just 1.7 miles from camp. Barn Yard Birds will be catering dinner there, with gluten-free and vegan options available, so everyone’s covered! Expect great food, cold brews and. Burgers are £11, with sides and fries available too.
On Sunday morning, we’ll spin over to The Milk Churn Cafe for breakfast before heading back to London, because nothing beats coffee and a good toastie after a night under the stars.

Camping cost is £15 for the night, which can be paid for now via buying a ticket on this event on TeamApp.

𖥞 💖 One More City

Booking is now open for the One More City 2025 edition, which covers nearly 600km and 9,000m of elevation. One More City is a charity campaign founded by Christine O’Connell, funding research into secondary breast cancer and many BellaVelo members have taken part in these rides.

🔗 Recommended reads + links

• Bella Velo featured in the Sunday Times: The rise of the Mawils* and why I’ve joined them (*Middle-aged women in Lycra)

• Lucy Jones proudly repping BV at Ride Sri Lankan 2025 (see below)

• The women's Spring Classics aren’t a men’s carbon copy, but we can't keep adding races – Analysis

• I got my first period in 15 years the morning of a big race, and didn’t know what to do’ — how pro racers deal with periods

• UCI Track Champions League cancelled after four years

• Video guide: How to adjust your brakes

• Safer cycling for women is safer cycling for all

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• Spring Social & Nutrition Talk with Jenny Powell on 2 April 🍷🥗

• New Joiners Sessions to boost your skills ✨

• Bivvy Weekend – bikepacking fun in June 🚴‍♀️🏕️

• International Women's Day Ride through London’s hidden tributes 🌍

• Ride & Seek Out Adventure evening in May to support World Bicycle Relief 💙

💌 Spring Social + Nutrition Talk | 2 April

Tickets are now on sale for our Spring Social on Wednesday 2 April in Acton. There will be drinks, supper, a kit exchange and, the star attraction, a talk on nutrition for optimal cycling performance by British Cycling coach and IOC Sports Nutritionist Jenny Powell. There is bike parking available.

We hope to see you all there!

📅 2 April 7pm-10:45pm

🎟️ Buy your ticket on TeamApp here (£12 each. Those making a substantial dish/contribution will be reimbursed).

✨ New Joiners sessions are back up and running for 2025! ✨

We have three sessions in March run by Cat and Belinda and regular sessions starting again with amazing coach Helen from April.

These sessions are such an important way of building our club and play a key role in our mission to support the development of women's cycling. Women who apply to join the club come from a wide range of experience levels so these sessions allow us to build skills and get everyone riding in a similar fashion. We work on riding in a line following a wheel, riding in pairs and doing rotations. We also look at key skills like drinking from a bottle and doing tight u-turns. Our New Joiners sessions are unique to BellaVelo and enable us to bring new riders into the club in a safe and supportive manner.

🏕️ Bivvy Weekend

Ella is organising this year’s bikepacking/bivvy weekend, to be held at the end of June. Just like last year, we’ll be riding out of London, camping overnight, enjoying a delicious dinner and breakfast, and then riding back to London on Sunday.

If you’re keen to join us, please sign up on TeamApp. Depending on numbers, this will influence the destination options. We’ll offer both road and gravel routes again, so if off-roading is your thing, you’re covered!

🔗 Recommended reads + links

• The ultimate guide to bike tyre pressure

• I use inner tubes on all my road bikes: Here's why I still haven't embraced tubeless

🫡 Are you interested in becoming a Ride Captain?

We are actively recruiting new ride captains to join our team for 2025! No specific experience or speed is required, as we need leaders for all speed groups in our club.

Being a ride captain is a great way of giving back to the club, but it's also a brilliant way of increasing your own involvement in the club and getting more out of it. Want to ride more hills, or want more short social coffee rides? Half our weekend rides are Ride Captain Choice so as an RC, if you want to see more of any specific type of ride you can offer it yourself! Full training and support is provided. For more info or to sign up to RC training contact Cat on: 07920056585

🌍 A Celebration of International Women's Day

Get ready to ride through history! Join us for our annual IWD ride, exploring the streets of central London past unseen statues, plaques, and tributes to incredible women – and not just the famous ones. We’ll be stopping a lot so wrap up well. Road, gravel, and city bikes are all suitable.

📌 Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42111522

📅 9 March: meet at the Windrush Memorial in Waterloo station for a 9.30 depart (what3words location: ///belly.closet.spin).

✨ From 6th to 9th March, Herne Hill Velodrome also have a jam-packed series of events aimed at celebrating, connecting, and supporting women in cycling - browse the schedule here.

💙 Upcoming event: Ride and Seek Out Adventure evening in memory of Alison Dex

Join us for an evening to raise funds for World Bicycle Relief, a charity close to Alison’s heart. The evening will feature speakers, including Alison’s son, James, telling us about their overseas cycling adventures and someone from WBR will come and tell us about the work of the charity. There will be a raffle and a sale of second-hand kit, with proceeds going to WBR.

The event will be ticketed (the price to include a welcome drink). Additional drinks and food will be available to purchase.

📅 Wednesday 14th May at G!RO in Esher.

More details to follow, including the link to ticket purchase (the event is not exclusive to BVCC).

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We’ve had a mix of adventures so far this year! Although the weather has meant some rides were called off, spirits have remained high and our hardy Bellas have been venturing out on the road and gravel. (Though, let’s be honest, when your bike and foot get stuck in the mud, is it still gravel riding?) A couple of us have gone to the Canary Islands in pursuit of some sun and a special group paid tribute to Alison on her birthday by mixing road and gravel in her memory.

Join us on Wednesday 12th February for Intro to Bike Fitting at Custom Fit Studio in East Twickenham, Richmond Road. If you’ve ever wondered what a bike fitting is and whether it might improve your cycling, this session is for you! Learn about the importance of a good set up on the bike, including your shoes, insoles and saddle as well as the all-important sizing. Sign up on TeamApp here.

Introducing the 2025 steering committee!

Thank you to everyone who attended the AGM - your support and enthusiasm keep our club thriving. We’re excited to introduce the steering committee who will be leading BellaVelo into another fantastic year of cycling, camaraderie, and adventure! Meet our splendid Bellas below:

🚴‍♀️ Club Chairperson – Belinda Scott

“Belinda co-founded BellaVelo with Alison Dex and continues to lead as Chair. Always a keen cyclist - riding to school, at university and commuting to work - she then got the travel bug and cycled over many European mountain ranges. These included the Tatra mountains in Poland, the Julian Alps in Slovenia as well as the Alps, Pyrenees and, her favourite range, the Dolomites. She is one of our Ride Captains, loves a cheese scone and has recently gone over to the ‘dark side’ ie gravel riding. When not cycling, Belinda is a keen vegetarian cook and is taken on walks by her dog companion Lola, a black Labrador.”

📜 Club Secretary – Frances Stewart

“I have been part of BV since it was a community and subsequently became a member. I had really only taken up cycling in the latter part of 2016 when I had more time on my hands and wanted to be part of a local club. The club grew and was looking for help, so I agreed to volunteer for the club pre-covid and later took up the role of Club Secretary in November 2020. Prior to this, Ella did amazing work in the early formation of the club. Hence in Jan 2021 we had our first formal AGM and the club has since gone from strength to strength. I have met wonderful ladies and inspirational leaders such as the late Alison and of course Belinda. It is a great team to be part of!”

💰 Club Treasurer – Caroline Gronvold

“In summer 2019 with much trepidation, I joined a BellaVelo away day to the seaside on their annual Fish&Chips ride. I loved the ride and the supportive community and promptly joined the club. It’s no exaggeration to say that BellaVelo has changed my life. I’ve gone from that initial ride in trainers (there were no rules around new joiners rides then!) to riding multi day events (Lands End to John o’Groats & Strasbourg to Rome One More City rides). I’ve met an amazing group of women who are now friends as well as club mates. I couldn’t say no when Alison asked me to become treasurer in 2023 and am happy to ‘give back’ to the club that she did so much to build”.

🎉 Social Secretary and Events Co-ordinators – Lisa Beck and Nadia Wilkinson “How is it that I rode a bike all my life but didn’t find such an inspiring and energising group of fellow female riders until a few years ago? Now, after massive improvement through this club, I introduce myself as a cyclist! (Want to dispatch boring people at cocktail parties? — Tell them about your weekly mileage!) When I’m not on a bike you can find me writing fiction, parenting supposedly adult children, volunteering with special needs and elderly support organisations or with my nose in a book. Thank you BV for all I’m still learning and improving!” — Lisa

🫡 Club Ride Captain – Cat Ridgway

“I started cycling in 2020 after retiring from nearly 20 years in competitive rowing and joined BellaVelo over the summer of 2020. In 2021 I trained as a ride captain and joined the steering committee towards the end of 2022 as social and communication secretary. I took over the role of Ride Captain at the start of 2024. I enjoy being involved in helping organise events and rides for the club. It's lovely seeing how much members appreciate everything we put on. I feel like the real strength of our club is the strong sense of community. I love how, whoever you're riding with, the conversation always flows and whatever event you turn up to members are always so welcoming. Personally I love riding and racing my bike. I've enjoyed being involved in zwift racing and had some great experiences getting up to elite categories. I also enjoy racing local TTs. I'm fairly new to gravel riding but have really enjoyed the growth of new gravel events and particularly gravel races in the UK over the last couple of years. It's a brilliant way of trying out competition without intimidating road pelotons.”

🌍 Diversity and Inclusion officer – Cat Dixon. Cat is committed to making BellaVelo a welcoming and inclusive space for all women, ensuring cycling is accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

🔗 Recommended reads + links

• Why are so many women cycling in the gym, but not outside?

• Beyond the commuter belt: why the stunning Surrey Hills are worth a short break

• Herne Hill Winter Warmer Series of talks, workshops, and socials

Kit restock

Our online shop has been restocked with kit for 2025! A reminder that we are now able to offer a free collection point for kit pick-up near Richmond Park. Members can select this option at the checkout on the website.

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Rain and mud is no deterrant to our intrepid gravellers, who have been getting the new year off to a great start!

🗓️ 2024 AGM REMINDER | Wednesday 15 January, 7pm-8:15pm (via Zoom)

Calling all club members! Please remember to join our AGM next week: the sign-up link is on TeamApp.

The current elected officers of the Steering Committee are as follows:

• Club Chairpersons – Belinda Scott

• Club Secretary – Frances Stewart

• Club Treasurer – Caroline Gronvold

• Club Ride Captain – Cat Ridgway

• Social Secretary and Events Coordinator – Lisa Beck and Nadia Wilkinson

• Diversity and Inclusion – Cat Dixon

• *Admin, TeamApp, Ops – Candida Watson (*non committee role.)
  🙏 Thank you to Nicola Whittock, who stood down from this role at the end of 2024, for all your hard work and everything you have contributed to the club!

📈 Fancy a long-distance challenge in 2025?

Some of our members are signing up for London-Edinburgh-London! Held once every four years, the 2025 edition will be on 3-8 August. Entries are open now. The ballot closes at 22:00 UTC on 17 January 2025.

There is a WhatsApp group dedicated to club members who are interested in audaxing. If you’d like to join, please message the club email address with a request to be added: bellavelocc@gmail.com

Kit restock

Our online shop has been restocked with kit for 2025! A reminder that we are now able to offer a free collection point for kit pick-up near Richmond Park. Members can select this option at the checkout on the website.

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✨ Welcome to the final BellaVelo newsletter of 2024 and Happy Christmas!

2024 was a notable year for many reasons.

Most painfully we lost our exceptional co-founder and inspirational leader Alison Dex. She has left a huge hole in our club but many members have been inspired by her spirit of adventure.

Members have travelled the length and breadth of Britain, others further afield to Uzbekistan and China. Others have participated in stages of the Tour de France in Le Loop, ridden from Vienna to Rome in aid of One More City raising funds for cancer research, and participated in the world gravel championships. Others have travelled from Munich to Rome, completed their first 100 miles and so much more. Women pushing their personal boundaries again and again. Some call this “Type 2” fun – tough when you’re doing it but ultimately rewarding in hindsight.

Five intrepid women – Alice Fowles, Lucy Jones, Ana Mc, Tara Holt and Cadzy Tighe – rode the course of the Pennine Rally, a tough, multi-day event. They were self-supported and left individually painted stones along the route in memory of Alison. There are few ways to better commemorate Alison and I know she would be so proud. This small group has also been instrumental in expanding the offering of the club to include some fantastic off-road rides and adventures. They are the Gravellers Unlimited group and have limitless ambition – well done everyone.

The club also rode to Shoreham-on-Sea, one of Alison’s favourite rides, along with Alison’s son James, despite a bout, or two, of torrential rain! Alison’s Awayday will become a regular club feature, albeit to different destinations.

We also rode in memory of Maureen Kenny in July (another wet ride) who passed away two years ago. The Maureen Kenny Cup was awarded to Cat Ridgway this year in recognition of her role in transforming our ride offering and her achievements in the Gravel World Championships. Well done Cat!

We finished off the year with the Mince Pie Ride to Windsor (with mulled wine at the end, naturally) and a nod to the Winter Solstice with laps on December 21^st. Watching the late winter sunrise (well, seeing it become light rather than seeing actual sunshine) in Richmond Park was the last cycling event that Alison participated in last year and it was a fitting end to this year.

What’s in store for 2025?

We have planned a full programme of events, thanks to Cat, Lisa and Nadia, including Club Rides, RC Choices, social events, the Stay at Home Training Camps and special awayday rides. The calendar for 2025 is below and will be available on TeamApp as well as the individual events throughout the year. I know people already have events planned with our travel partner Mellow Jersey for trips to Mallorca, Calpe and Slovenia as well as gravel adventures with Sisters in the Wild, Audax and Glaudax events. Looking forward to many more adventures with fellow Bellas!

Happy New Year!

Belinda x

🎉 Christmas party report

Christmas arrived a little early at the BellaVelo party on December 4th, and what a fantastic evening it was! We had a great turnout of members both old and new and enjoyed delicious pizzas.

🙏 Our Ride Captains who led six or more rides were presented with an early Christmas gift from the club, as were those unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes. A huge thank you to Frances Stewart, Joanne Davies, Theo Robinson, Caroline Grønvold, Cat Ridgway, Nicola Whittock, Katy Gaunt, Lisa Beck, and Nadia Wilkinson for all that they do.

🏆 This year’s Maureen Kenny Cup, voted on by the members, was awarded to Cat Ridgway in recognition of her outstanding contributions to improving our ride offerings, as well as her impressive training and participation in the World Gravel Championships in Belgium. Well deserved, Cat!

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✨ Christmas Party tickets now on sale! | 4 December, 7pm

Join us to celebrate the Christmas season at The Dynamo in Putney! Tickets are £12 each, and include nibbles, a delicious pizza, and your first drink.

The Dynamo is less than 10 minutes walk from Putney Bridge tube and just 8 minutes walk (downhill!) from Putney British Rail. There are 10–12 hooks of indoor bike storage available on a first-come basis and plenty of parking on the road.

👉 Buy your ticket here. 📍Venue: The Dynamo, Putney, SW15 2NA.

🍕 When purchasing your ticket, please indicate if you require vegetarian, gluten-free, or both in the comments.

🔧 Maintenance workshops | 12 + 19 November, 6.45pm

Do you want to recognise when to give your bike some TLC, clean, and care for it? Know how to change an inner tube? Change a chain or, at least, know when it’s worn out? Why are the gears rattling and when to change brake blocks? Come along to our hands-on session with your bike and have a pizza too (included in the ticket price).

👉 Tickets: £20, here. 📍Venue: Norbiton pub, Clifton Rd, upstairs room.

🏕️ BellaVelos going off-road on the Silk Road  . . .

Nadine and Sue recently ventured to Uzbekistan with Red Spokes Adventure Tours. The trip included a seven-day mountain bike section, totalling around 300kms.  

Read on for a taste of their incredible trip!

We had a few days and nights together at the start before joining the tour in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. Tashkent is not a particularly pretty city, it’s no Rome, Paris or Berlin. It is however easy to walk around from the grid structure; the Soviet influence can be seen in a number of the buildings. There are no stunning high rises or ancient buildings but there is a fascinating metro system set up under the Soviet rule, each station being entirely different. 

The other take-home we had almost immediately both in Tashkent and across the tour is how safe it is, no undercurrent or suspicious eyes. Just people getting on with their lives in a city that isn’t bursting to its seams with people. 

We met the group and our guide for the majority of the tour, Shamil, who was of Russian descent and with us until Samarkand, where he lived.  With a calm demeanour and excellent English, he was very knowledgeable about both the cycling and history of Uzbekistan.  After dining with the group, the following morning we headed out to what would be our first camp site of the adventure and were introduced to our Giant mountain bikes, with suspension ... of a fashion. Some flurry in camp ensued as we began changing seats, pedals and other useful bike related things. We would definitely recommend taking your own pedals of choice and saddle. 

We began out cycling journey in Jizzakh (route map attached).  You can also check out the full mountain biking  itinerary in the below link.  This really was the trip of 'planes, trains, automobiles' and of course bikes!  Seven days mountain biking across varied terrain to be precise, at least three days of which involved pretty technical climbing and descending on varying types of terrain. Undulation was the theme of this trip. In general, the trip is not for the faint hearted and having some mountain biking experience would be useful. 

Our favourite cycling day was Day 6 on the itinerary (Chuya to Maiden village via Lyangar pass) which brought a stunning climb overlooking a valley stretching to the horizon.  Each cycling day was varied and off grid with a number of the villages that we cycled through not being accustomed to western tourists and we were quite a novelty in some areas.  It was clear that the locals were really pleased that people are visiting and interested in their country. The friendliness of the local people will stick with us for a long time to come, with cars pulling over to greet you and wish you well all throughout the hillside. 

While cycling we were mostly camping, with one night in a basic home stay.  It was unseasonably chilly on our trip thanks to Hurricane Kirk’s aftereffects, so a few nights were colder than we would have liked; one being estimated at -4!

The camp food was excellent; the best breakfast in our opinion was the eggy bread!  Lunch was prepared en route and in some fabulous places when the weather allowed and dinner was a super sociable affair in the evening. The diet is very meat-based and comes up short in the salad and veggie area (though there were no vegetarians/vegans on our trip, so imagine there is more adaptation to the menu available).

At the end of the cycling part of the tour, the trip continued by minibus and took the form of a much more traditional trip to the tourist sites and staying in hotels; all super well-organised, but definitely felt a bit jarring after a few nights under canvas.  That said, the warm shower, comfy bed, and ability to do some washing was however much appreciated… 

Uzbekistan is a fascinating mix of former Soviet regime (particularly Tashkent) combined with the contrast of Islamic style architecture. And it’s on the change: the younger generation are being encouraged to return to their pre-soviet religion, attend mosques and it was evident that many new ones are being built. 

💙 “Ride and Seek Out Adventure” tees on sale

In BellaVelo light blue, the tee features our logo on the front, one of Alison’s favourite sayings, "Ride and Seek Out Adventure", on the back, and #ridingfordexy on the sleeve. The t-shirt hopefully serves as an inspiration to us all. Available to purchase in the online BV store here.

It includes a £5 donation to the Trinity Hospice, where Alison spent her last days, which will be matched by the club. The fit is snug, so please size up if you'd like a looser fit.

❄️ Winter training is back!

Jen Buckley is kindly offering group coaching this autumn/winter to BellaVelo members.

Over four-week blocks, she’s offering a weekly workout on three Fridays and one Thursday evening (you can also do in your own time), a weekly 10-minute core session on Wednesday morning, and bi-weekly indoor social rides and a bi-weekly coaching clinic. Most Bellas who train indoors use Zwift, but you don’t have to use Zwift. Jen will talk you through the power goals and you’ll be connected via Zoom.

Please drop her an email: Jen.Buckley@ymail.com.

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⛺ Autumn Stay at Home Camp recap

We loved hearing the achievements of our Stay at Home Campers!

“I didn’t think I would ever be able to do four reps of this hill!” . . .“Only managed this as part of a group” . . . “This would be great to do when I’m by myself over just doing steady solo laps”.

Our Stay At Home Camp (SAHC) at the start of the month was a great success, and a huge thank you to Jen Buckley for organising this!

We enjoyed a few days of gorgeous autumn sunshine for this fun alternative to a trip away. We had a perfect blend of cycling fun plus home comforts, enabling us to train hard, but sleep in our own beds, and still be able to tend to plants, kids, or pets!

The weekend was packed with activities: we kicked off with a skills session followed by coffee + chats, got our sweat on with a turbo session via Zoom, a couple of 80km club rides to practice our skills, and wrapped it all up with a coaching clinic. Though there’s no pressure to attend every session, we had quite a few campers joining most sessions and we had a fantastic time training in a group environment.

During the camp, we tackled rotations and hill reps, and our amazing Ride Captains supported us heading out to Windsor. An afternoon stretching session helped us all reset and recover.

Jen commented: “It was fabulous getting feedback at the late Sunday afternoon Coaching clinic. I’ll definitely cover Foam rolling again next year as the 60 second plug couldn’t do the benefits justice. We also discussed other club requirements and great to see Belinda has already posted ‘mechanics’ sessions. Keep a regular look out on TeamApp as there is always something that could be of benefit to you!”

Mark your calendars for the next camp on 7-9 March 2025 — we can’t wait to see you there!

🔔 🔜 Upcoming rides + events

🎗️💗 OMC fundraising ride | 19 October, 8am

Join us for our annual ride to support One More City!

👉 Details to be posted on TeamApp.

⛄ Thriving over Winter - Top Tips | 24 October, 7pm

We'll share top tips on how to keep you and your bike going through the colder months, including bike maintenance, clothing choices, and suitable routes, plus indoor training advice. Enjoy some pizza while you learn!

👉 Tickets: £10, here. 📍Venue: Norbiton pub, Clifton Rd, upstairs room.

🔧 Maintenance workshops | 12 + 19 November, 6.45pm

Do you want to recognise when to give your bike some TLC, clean, and care for it? Know how to change an inner tube? Change a chain or, at least, know when it’s worn out? Why are the gears rattling and when to change brake blocks? Come along to our hands-on session with your bike and have a pizza too (included in the price).

👉 Tickets: £20, here. 📍Venue: Norbiton pub, Clifton Rd, upstairs room.

🎄 Christmas Party | 4 December, 7pm

Put the date in your diaries for some festive fun, and a chance to socialise without the lycra!

👉 Details to be posted soon on TeamApp.

❄️ Winter training is back!

Jen Buckley is kindly offering group coaching this autumn/winter to BellaVelo members.

Over four-week blocks, she’s offering a weekly workout on three Fridays and one Thursday evening (you can also do in your own time), a weekly 10-minute core session on Wednesday morning, and bi-weekly indoor social rides and a bi-weekly coaching clinic. Most Bellas who train indoors use Zwift, but you don’t have to use Zwift. Jen will talk you through the power goals and you’ll be connected via Zoom.

Please drop her an email: Jen.Buckley@ymail.com.

💪 Looking to line up a challenge for 2025?

Thanks to everyone who attended our social event the other week all about Planning Your Next Adventure! A round-up of tips and ideas is linked on TeamApp here.

It was fantastic to hear such a range of ideas and experiences from our members. The main takeaway was definitely that is there’s anything you want to do, one of our amazing members will have the knowledge to help you achieve it! What a wealth of knowledge and experience at our finger tips.

A massive thank you to Lisa and Belinda who put the event together, to our speakers (Alice, Ella and Jen) and to everyone who brought contributions. Our gorgeous new t-shirts are also now available to buy online (see details at the end).

💥 Celebrating Club Achievements!

🇧🇪 🏆 The Gravel World Championships

Cat Ridgway raced last weekend in Belgium at the Gravel World Championships and reported back:

My race was on Saturday with the elite women going off first, then some of the age group men and women's categories. Despite separate starting pens it was incredibly fast racing with mixed groups coming together. It was very different from the other races I've done this year where I've largely been by myself in Scottish mountains. The course was very mixed with fast road sections, lots of cobbles and some interesting cycle paths as well as the standard forest gravel tracks, farm tracks and rutted fields. It was a fantastic experience though. The crowds were incredible all along the course. Think my kids enjoyed the atmosphere as well.

⛰️ Riding the Pennine Way self-supported

Five of our intrepid Bellas rode the Pennine Way gravel route self-supported in aid of the Trinity Hospice, where Alison spent her last days, all sporting our new BellaVelo t-shirt.

The t-shirt is also available to purchase in the online store here.

In BellaVelo light blue, the tee features our logo on the front, one of Alison’s favourite sayings, "Ride and Seek Out Adventure", on the back, and #ridingfordexy on the sleeve. The t-shirt hopefully serves as an inspiration to us all. It includes a £5 donation to the Trinity Hospice, where Alison spent her last days, which will be matched by the club. The fit is snug, so please size up if you'd like a looser fit.

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