Olympians become Breeze ambassadors

Two of Britain’s best-loved cyclists have joined the biggest programme ever to get more women on their bikes for fun. Lizzie Armitstead and Jess Varnish are British Cycling’s brand new Breeze ambassadors.

Since its launch in May 2011, British Cycling’s Breeze programme has tackled barriers facing women and is providing loads of fun and free opportunities to help them get back on their bikes.

Led by women, for women, Breeze has already helped over 17,000 women feel confident and comfortable about going on a bike ride. We’ve also trained and supported over 400 Breeze champions to deliver more than 3,000 local bike rides in across England.

Olympic silver-medallist Lizzie Armitstead is proud to be a Breeze ambassador.

Lizzie said: ‘Jess and I are encouraging as many women as possible to get on their bikes and go on a Breeze bike ride. Cycling is a big part of my life and I want as many women out there to experience the fun and social side of riding a bike.

‘It’s not as scary as you think because Breeze is here to help you start your cycling journey. From advice on learning how to ride through to local bike rides, Breeze is fantastic and accessible!’

Jess Varnish said: ‘Cycling gives you a sense of freedom like nothing else. I’m proud to be involved in Breeze as it’s doing such a great job in breaking down the barriers and empowering women to get on their bikes.’

We’d like to say a big thank you to Jess and Lizzie for supporting Breeze - it's been an incredible 12 months for women's cycling and they've played a massive part. Bring on 2013!

To find a Breeze bike ride near you – enter your postcode into the Ride Finder above.