Sport
2 December, 2024
Breaking barriers in cycling
A NEW women’s bike racing team, dedicated to transforming novice cycling enthusiasts into competitive athletes, has been launched in Cairns.
Offering an exciting opportunity to champion female participation and excellence in the sport of cycling, this new initiative, sponsored primarily by local social enterprise MiHaven, is set on advancing women’s participation in competitive cycling through strategic training and racing opportunities, with the ultimate goal of creating role models and advocates inspiring other women to shift gears towards racing.
MiHaven co-owner and director James Mort said the initiative was a fabulous idea to encourage activity and social interaction among women of all ages.
“At MiHaven, we’re deeply committed to building stronger communities and that extends beyond housing to initiatives,” he said.
“This team embodies the values of empowerment, perseverance, and inclusion, which are core to everything we do.
“We’re thrilled to support these incredible women as they break barriers in cycling and inspire others to take on new challenges.”
Mr Mort also said the team was about more than just sport and served a larger purpose creating opportunities for women to achieve greatness, both on and off the track.
“By supporting this team, we’re investing in a vision where women in our community feel encouraged to chase their goals and redefine what’s possible in cycling and beyond,” he said.
“It’s an honour to be part of this journey”.
MiHaven Women’s Racing Team founder Gaby Thomasz said the team currently comprised of women aged 30 to 50, including nurses, certified fitness instructors, marketing professionals, and an engineer, with the aim to expand their team and scope from U17 riders through to senior riders still wishing to compete.
“Our team is built on the shared vision of creating pathways for women of all ages to participate and excel in cycling,” she said.
“This is about building confidence, camaraderie, and a community of strong female athletes.”
“This initiative is more than a team, it’s a movement to spark passion, break barriers and grow women’s participation in road and track cycling racing.”
