Clair Goddard

Ten years ago, Clair Goddard passed out waiting for a doctor’s appointment and after spending three weeks in hospital she knew that she had to change her life. 

Losing a bit of weight on various crash diets wasn’t working and so Clair joined HOOP (Helping Overcome Obesity Problems), the UK organisation offering support to people struggling with issues surrounding weight management and obesity. 

Through HOOP, Clair started cycling and has completely transformed her life, losing 8 stone and inspiring others to have the confidence to start riding. 

Now I don’t think anything about cycling 40 or 50 miles. I love having the freedom to go out on my bike with great people. We never leave anyone behind

Clair Goddard

Clair said: “It’s a great place to be with like-minded people who support each other without any judgement. 

“Now I don’t think anything about cycling 40 or 50 miles. I love having the freedom to go out on my bike with great people. We never leave anyone behind”

Clair is now a member of HSBC UK Breeze and Cycle Bognor organising rides to empower, support and help others regain their confidence and challenges attitudes towards obesity. 

It’s clear to see how inspirational Clair has been by the many heartfelt nominations she received by the women she has helped. 

One said: “Clair is one of the most encouraging, motivating selfless ladies I know, she is always there for everyone with her positive attitude and lovely warm smile. When you’re very overweight you can become very isolated, so I really look forward to these rides and Clair certainly gave me the push I needed. I would never have thought I could ever achieve these things without Clair's help, encouragement and support.”

Another said: “Clair shows a real passion to feel positive and she gains strength from riding her bike to get the feel-good factor. Her passion and enthusiasm shines though and this has an effect on people who know her or meet her.

“Clair is a sociable rider and it's always about enjoying the journey rather than worrying not being able to reach a destination.” 

When you’re very overweight you can become very isolated, so I really look forward to these rides and Clair certainly gave me the push I needed.

One of the women who nominated Clair

And another said: “She is an amazing person and an amazing ambassador for cycling.”

What is 100 Women in Cycling?

Cycling UK’s 100 Women in Cycling is an annual list celebrating inspirational women who are encouraging others to cycle.