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What the girls had to say...
Kerry Davis, Norwich – cyclist,
"I got into cycling because it gave me a few hours freedom from the responsibility of looking after the children."
Paula Lee, Norfolk – triathlete
"I went to watch the Norwich triathlon in July 2009 and was immediately struck by the camaraderie between the athletes, the incredible atmosphere and the looks on people’s faces when they crossed the line. I resolved then to enter a triathlon. I borrowed my sister–in-law’s cheap mountain bike and really thought I was the bee’s knees.
I loved cycling straight away – it just made me smile to be on a bike – I had no idea about what to do but I just loved the freedom of it all. I remember cycling 12 miles on a Sunday and coming to work to tell colleagues- I honestly thought I had achieved something monumental – which I had for me! Riding feels great. Being fit feels great. Being tired from physical exercise feels great – what’s not to like? My running was slow (as part of triathlons) – but I always felt at home on a bike. My husband and I still ride every week together, it is very much something we do together. We cycled in the Alps last year . We have been cycle touring in France and Croatia. We even cycled London to Paris in 24 hours in 2011. You see and do more on bike!"
Emily Barclay – Norfolk cyclist
"It might sound boring, but my other half has long been a keen cyclist, and I didn't really get it. I remember digging out my ancient MTB and managing a whole 5 miles, but seeing that maybe it could be fun. I got a hybrid and suddenly 20 miles was possible. Now have a gorgeous road bike and am hooked on cycling!"
WORDS BY: Erica Auger