Riders on the storm

Cycling through coronavirus

Claire Tyrrell, 33

“Cycling has always allowed me to connect with an abundance of like-minded individuals, and although I’ve switched my riding indoors during the pandemic this ability has not changed. Through web applications including Zwift and Discord I can engage in the same social rides I was doing before, albeit virtually." Having a physical outlet has always been important for me and even more so during this crisis."The fact I can jump on my KICKR during my lunch break or after work and immerse myself in a fun training environment has done wonders for my mental health.”

Nicholas Frank, 50

“For many of us, our most vivid memories in life are when our backs are against the wall. Everything seems sharper and our senses are heightened. While life might imitate art, cycling certainly has many lessons to tell us about how to respond to life challenges if we’re physically or psychologically su!ering. Although many of us have decided to train indoors, circumstances have reframed my solo outdoor rides to little luxuries and daily rations to be grateful for. They are my escape from solitary confinement for the freedom of much quieter roads and the natural world. We’re living through some uniquely disruptive history. But while we su!er from social isolation and uncertainty, we know that – like a long Alpine climb – it too shall pass and we can look forward to a view and a descent on the other side.”