Bike, few friends a winning formula

A SECOND-hand bike and a network of like-minded friends has helped Elizabeth Blooms’ love for cycling blossom.

“I decided I’d go up to Copperlode and six months later I was doing a 200km Audax ride,” Blooms said.

“I just fell in love with it right away.”

A bad running injury led Blooms to the bike two and a half years ago and she’s never looked back.

For Blooms, and others, the freedom of being out on two wheels – either individually or with a group – has become a therapy of sorts.

“It’s really good therapy for me to get out on the ride and up to rainforest, into the mountains, and become really mindful,” Blooms said.

“I’ve got back into running now which has helped my cycling but I’ve fallen in love with cycling more now.”

The first steps in anything new can often be the hardest, but for Blooms it was made easier by finding and connecting with a small community of like-minded individuals.

“It’s finding someone with experience who can guide you,” Blooms said.

“Starting out, it’s just about being simple. My first bike was just through like Facebook marketplace. Cycling can be expensive but it was just about starting slow and trying it out.

“It’s also about being confident in yourself.

“I’m in my mid-40s and only getting into it now. I think I should’ve been doing it when I’m a teenager, but it’s something anyone can do.

“There’s plenty of support in Cairns with women’s cycling groups, Cairns Multisport Crew, and there’s different people who do a range of things and that can help you build your confidence too.”

Blooms said she expected a tough Tour of the Tropics campaign, but would rely on her teammates to finish the five-stage event.

“It’s going to be hard for me because I am a solo rider,” Blooms said. “For me it's working in the team and supporting other women.”

IT’S FINDING SOMEONE WITH EXPERIENCE WHO CAN GUIDE YOU... IT’S ALSO ABOUT BEING CONFIDENT IN YOURSELF.