EVESHAM Wheelers member Helen Russell has been named as one of Cycling UK’s 100 Women in Cycling for 2022.
The 100 Women in Cycling list was launched in 2017 and celebrates inspirational women who are encouraging others to experience the joy of cycling.
Russell was chosen after being nominated and has been listed in the ‘Sporting Hero’ category, recognising her sporting success in quadrathlon and triathlon as well as her charity work and work to promote equality in sport.
Russell said, “I have no idea who nominated me but want to thank them! I am honoured to have been included on this list of so many inspirational women cyclists.
“I saw my name on the list next to 99 amazing women cyclists and it felt very humbling to be part of it.”
Every year Cycling UK highlights 100 exceptional women who promote cycling and encourage others to take part.
The list is generated from public nominations and can feature any woman who is going the extra mile, from community champions and industry moguls to cycling influencers and sporting heroes.
And mention was made of Russell’s use of cycling to promote hidden histories, especially women’s, LGBT and worker’s history.
The list also acts to encourage more women to get on their bikes as there are still barriers that prevents more women from participating in cycling.
Statistically in the UK, men make nearly four times as many journeys by bike than women and women still need further encouragement, as they are 17 per cent more likely to cite fear of traffic as a barrier to cycling than men.
Sarah Mitchell, Cycling UK’s chief executive, added: “Representation makes a huge difference, and improving the visibility of women’s cycling means more women are likely to feel it is also for them.
“This is what makes the work our 100 Women in Cycling do so important – whether it’s winning races, supporting their community, or telling stories about the adventures and challenges faced by other inspiring women.”
Cycling Minister Jesse Norman, at the Department for Transport, said: “It’s fantastic to see so many inspirational women encouraging others to cycle.
“Some are cycling because it’s so healthy, some because it’s quick and easy, some to protect the environment.
“Whatever the reason, they should be extremely proud of what they have achieved.”
