Runner-up - Detta Regan
This summer we've been searching for Britain's Biggest Cycling Fan. Coming in second is Detta Regan. Read Detta’s story below.
Detta writes...
I’ve cycled all my life, I cycle everyday, everywhere, any weather and I’ve made it my mission to get everyone, especially women, cycling. Wherever I go in the world it’s to cycle – USA, Japan, Cuba, Barbados...
In 2002 I founded an organisation, now a UK charity, called Follow the Women. The idea was to promote my belief in women, peace and cycling. In 2004 my inaugural ride had 270 women from more than 25 countries cycling from Lebanon, through Syria and into Jordan – countries where it was very unusual to even see women on bicycles. Four more rides have taken place since then, with even more women and countries taking part. As a result thousands of women worldwide have been able to use the bicycle as a tool of freedom and peace. Women in the Middle East have discovered the freedom of cycling, and women’s cycling groups have been formed in countries where none existed before.
As a youth worker I'm passionate about the power of the bike for young people. I've used this passion to take NEET young people (those not in education, employment or training) on rides, and helped provide local BMX and bike tracks. I even have a bike workshop in my youth centre where young people learn mechanic skills and contribute to the community and their own employability.
I promote cycling regularly on Radio Berkshire and I'm a Breeze champion encouraging the women of Berkshire to get on their bikes and be active. In my spare time I just ride my bike!
I went to Richmond to watch the men’s Olympic road race, absolutely revelled in the success in the velodrome and have been thrilled with the Paralympics cycle action!
