Back Row from the left – Karen Terlinski, Lorraine Dewar, Kelly Wilson
Front Row from the left – Enid Kaminski, Michelle Kulchycki, Elizabeth Drew
How did you hear about CWS and what impact has it had on your life?
Karen – I read an article in the local newspaper about the launch party at Bikes & Beyond. I embrace women supporting women especially in physical activities. The social aspect of this club is much more beneficial than I could ever have imagined.
Lorraine – I read about CWS in the ESP Newsletter. I immediately knew I was interested as I had wanted to get into a cycling group since retiring. My confidence in cycling has improved significantly since joining CWS. And I love the camaraderie and connection with a group of like-minded women.
Kelly – Having recently retired with a goal to cycle more, a friend sent me a FB post for CWS’s launch event at Bikes and Beyond. I knew Sarah and was excited to support her. Sarah gave me the confidence to become a ride leader. I have shared many amazing cycling experiences with women I’m honoured to call my cycling sisters.
Enid – On several occasions, in the community paper and The Winnipeg Free Press. I enjoy the friendships and community of like-minded women while we explore our city and share the adventure together.
Michelle – I read about CWS in the community Review magazine in early 2023 shortly after retiring. My first thought was, ‘this exactly what I’m looking for’. My second thought was,’ I’m not good enough to belong to a cycling group’ and cut the article out and put it aside. I finally reached out later in the summer and was added to the waiting list and later given the opportunity to ride with the group. The rest is history. The cycling group was exactly what I needed at exactly the right time. It’s not only about the cycling but the friendships that have been formed because of this group.
Elizabeth – I initially heard about CWS when Sarah did a radio interview with CBC morning show in 2023 promoting the launch of her new senior ladies only cycling group. It was just what I was looking for. I was recently retired, enjoyed cycling and yet I had no one to cycle with. Joining CWS has had a tremendous positive impact on my life – I’ve made lifelong friends who accept me for ME and love and support me in both good and tough times. This is so much more than just a cycling group…a true sisterhood!
A little bit of history – When did you get interested in cycling?
Karen – I have loved cycling and the freedom it gives since I was a teenager.
Lorraine – I’ve always had interest in sports but had been nervous about cycling. Since retiring and through COVID I started focusing on more cycling and spinning.
Kelly – Cycling has always been a part of my life – as a young girl riding “no hands” on my CCM 10-speed bike delivering newspapers on Henderson Hwy, as a new mom towing my young son around Victoria Beach every summer and now as a young senior woman creating social connections within the CWS family.
Enid – As a child and teen, living on a farm, cycling was my mode of transportation. My cousin and I lived a mile apart, so in the summer months we’d ride our bikes to visit each other, sometimes we’d ride the gravel roads for hours – a fixed gear bike in the wind is very challenging! In the 80’s, I would commute to work riding my 10-speed bike ‘on the street’ of Portage Avenue.
Michelle – I have always had a bike but was never what I considered ‘a cyclist’. One of my goals after retiring was to get out on my bike more. The problem was that I didn’t know where to go and didn’t have anyone to ride with.
Elizabeth – I got interested in cycling later in life – probably around age 50. My doctor wanted me to get more active…I was NEVER an outdoorsy, exercise type of gal. Didn’t know what to do. My husband suggested cycling and after about a month of sticking to it I got hooked. I also learned to love year long outdoor activities like walking/hiking and snowshoeing.
What motivates you to keep cycling?
Karen – What a great way to explore new places while being engaged in healthy physical activity.
Lorraine – I am motivated to keep cycling because I’ve been hit by the cycling passion bug! I love the ability to try new routes and explore parks.
Kelly – Primarily for my health and mental well being. There’s just something about the freedom cycling affords, discovering new trails and meeting new people along the way. And the snacks – always the snacks!!
Enid – Being outdoors, the adventures, the connections with others and the exercise it provides.
Michelle -The health benefits would be one thing, but I really enjoy discovering new cycling paths and exploring the city. The first time I rode from my house out to The Forks I couldn’t believe that I went that far. I was so amazed that I was able to ride that far and wanted to go further. It made me believe that I really could cycle the longer distances.
Elizabeth – Bakery treats and ice cream!! Love that after a long ride with my friends we often will celebrate!
What is the cycling tip you have shared the most?
Karen – Be bold, start cold. Don’t overdress when starting your cycling adventure.
Lorraine – Don’t be afraid to get a bike fit! Being comfortable on your bike is such an important part of enjoying the ride. A bike fit can help you feel great, enjoy your bike more and keep you riding.
Kelly – I have shared two cycling tips the most – the importance of maintaining your bike and being visible to others on the roadway.
Enid – As you approach a stopping point, ie. a traffic light or stop sign, have it mind that you want to back pedal your left pedal so it is already at the top position and forward slightly, so when you are ready, to move forward, you can quickly and smoothly be in motion. This helps move the group smoothly through an intersection.
Michelle – The ride isn’t about being faster than someone or worrying about not being able to keep up, it’s about enjoying the ride.
Elizabeth – Don’t be afraid to use your gears!!! Makes all the difference
What is the key thing you have learned about group riding?
Karen – Personal safety first. Always be mindful of your surroundings. It’s always a fun time!
Lorraine – Communication and staying alert to your surroundings are key factors in successful group riding.
Kelly – Group versus solo riding is like comparing apples to oranges. In a group ride you are accountable to others – stay focused and pass along hand and verbal signals in a clear and loud voice. You and your group riders depend on it!
Enid – There is a developed mutual respect and trust between the cyclists. We look out for and care about each other and often will become friends outside of cycling.
Michelle -Group riding is fun but requires a lot of focus. You really need to be aware of the cyclists ahead, behind and beside you. As soon as someone becomes distracted, it can lead to an accident. I also love how everyone encourages each other in a group ride. It is very motivating.
Elizabeth – Group riding gives you a deep sense of camaraderie. I have learned so many new cycling routes/destinations from the group that I would never have discovered on my own. I also seem to be able to go so much farther and longer when riding with a group of my riding sisters