We all feel when we take up a new sport or return to one following a break that the initial challenge is actually making those first all-important steps to join in.  Many ladies talk of anticipation and anxiety before their first Hopwood Ladies outing.  However, that is soon replaced by extreme enthusiasm for forthcoming rides and as their confidence grows further they often feel the need to push to the next level and once again get out of their comfort zone.  It is for this reason that we organise occasional rides of longer distances or faster speeds.  A few examples of past challenges are listed below.  Always remember these rides are only to provide ladies with the opportunity to take part and you would be encouraged to do so only if you expressed an interest.

Coast to Coast (Whitehaven to Sunderland ): 3 days

Birmingham to Woolacombe, North Devon: 2 days

Llandudno to Birmingham: 1½ days

Blackpool to Birmingham : 1½ days

50 miles in 4 hours

100 miles in 8 hours

Friday night handicap-style rides.  Very fast 40-50 minute ride to catch the ladies in front of you and not be caught by those starting behind you (phone Deb for details and dates - see contacts).

The list is endless.  The rides listed above are the ones that were a challenge to our fitter ladies but don't forget that to many their first 20 miles was the greatest challenge of all.  That 20 then stretches to 30, then to 40, 50, 60 and before they know it they have done their first century - and it doesn’t even stop there!  Whatever you choose to work towards, you can expect assurance and encouragement right up to that last mile.