COME TOGETHER...
THE PANDEMIC HAS THROWN THE MOTHER OF ALL SPANNERS INTO THE CLUB DYNAMIC. RATHER THAN SEE IT AS A PROBLEM, KENT VELO GIRLS (KVG) SAW OPPORTUNITY…
RIGHT FROM THE start of lockdown, we did our best to stay connected as a club,” explains Suzi Rae of the Kent Velo Girls (KVG). “Virtual rides on Zwift were an obvious option but, at the time, few of our riders used this platform as we’ve predominantly ridden on the road. Not letting that stop us, the club turbos were lent out to those who needed them, instructions put together and we started regular meet-ups on Zwift.
“There was then a virtual co ee afterwards on Zoom for anyone who wanted to join in. To support our regular co ee shop, which was closed at this time, we also purchased virtual co ees.”
Many members preferred to keep riding on the road. “Everyone was encouraged to ride in our distinctive pink club kit so we could easily spot and wave to each other while we were out in the local area.”
The KVG also completed the Zwift Tour for All, Geraint Thomas’s NHS fundraiser and parts of the Duchenne Dash at Home 300km in 24-hours charity ride.
“As restrictions eased, we added in a few fly-by rides where solo or pairs of riders would ride the same route, leaving from di erent places and times and some reversing the direction, in the hope of increased sightings.
“Our racing team, KVGPink, really reflects the full range of the KVG membership – some riders are in their 30s, others are in their 70s.”
During Lockdown, KVG replaced overseas adventures for local ones. “Four of our members took on the epic challenge of ‘Everesting’ – climbing the height of Everest in one day.
This involved each of them cycling 15 times up Toys Hill – the highest point in Kent. No mean feat, especially on a summer’s day.”
“From July to September, collectively we rode over 45,000 miles, which is 20 per cent up on the same period the previous year. We also saw record renewal numbers, and all members who work for the NHS were o ered free membership for the year. Our Kent Velo Kids section also saw record numbers from the boom in cycling, and the sessions in the autumn were full, with an equal split of girls and boys.
“Lockdown and the restrictions in Kent have required some creative thinking. We’ve all been so grateful to have our club and our bikes through this time, and have retained an emphasis on informing, supporting and inspiring members, enabling them to achieve their cycling ambitions and maintain their cycling friendships.”