“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.” ? Eleanor Roosevelt
At a time when we acknowledge and celebrate the progress of women in cycling, it is fitting to ponder on the words of a woman who at times was merely in the shadow of one of the world’s most remarkable presidents.
It may often appear that some of our female athletes and cyclists are overshadowed by the achievements and sheer magnitude of their male counterparts.
It is encouraging however to not only see our local heroes helping the women’s disciplines to grow in stature and importance but also to see women’s cycling “finding its own place in the sun”.
Examples of this can be seen through increased prize money for women both locally and abroad, a greater participation locally and internationally, and the first ever women’s event at the Tour de France when the monumental event hosted the inaugural La Course by Le Tour de France, which coincided with the culmination of the gruelling Tour de France itself. The world was treated to a truly spectacular display of women’s cycling at its best.
With the UCI (International Cycling Union) recognising women at top level and having women present on their commissions, there is a greater representation of women in the administration of the sport as well. Cycling South Africa’s new formation of a Women’s Commission will ensure that there is a focus on the development of women in our sport in South Africa.
Cycling South Africa take this opportunity to salute every woman regardless of their age and ability who participate as cyclists, administrators and supporters in this wonderful yet demanding sport of ours.
ENDS
