Only one month left to nominate the UK’s most inspirational women in cycling

For the eighth consecutive year, Cycling UK is inviting people to nominate their bike heroes for its prestigious 100 Women in Cycling 2024 awards.

The initiative celebrates the extraordinary contributions of women from all walks of life who are shaping the future of cycling and addressing the gender imbalance by empowering others. Previous winners include Maxine Peake, actress, director and writer, a keen cyclist who wrote a play about legend Beryl Burton; Gail Porter, TV presenter, mental-health advocate and champion of cycling; and Dame Sarah Storey DBE, British Paralympic athlete and multiple gold medallist in the Paralympic Games.

From urban streets to remote trails, these remarkable women are making cycling more accessible and inclusive. Whether pioneering community schemes, driving industry innovation, igniting social change or conquering podiums, each accolade is awarded for achievements that encourage a more diverse group of people to feel like cycling is for them – whether as their chosen mode of transport or as a leisure activity.

2023 winner Jo Shwe, 44, from Ackworth, co-founded Colour Collective and was chosen as an ambassador for Cotic bikes and Trash Free Trails. Jo champions inclusivity and the environment in her cycling, and through her work with the Trash Mob Academy to empower young people and give them purpose through cycling, she is driving change for a more inclusive and accessible cycling world. She said:

“I always think middle-aged average women are still underrepresented in cycling, so it was amazing to be recognised as part of the list. I work in a school, and when I told the young women I work with about the award, it encouraged them to go out riding their bikes more. The award also boosted my confidence and elevated my profile so it’s wonderful more women are going to be recognised in this way.

“Cycling has opened so many doors for me. Age, ability, gender, ethnicity and social background don't matter as much as treating everyone and everything with kindness and respect.”

Nominations are open to all and span four distinct categories:

Community champion

The unsung heroes of cycling groups, school-run mums organising bike buses, founders of bike schemes for refugees – these women teach others how to ride, lead rides and support others to find their confidence.

Sporting hero

Women who have embarked on epic adventures or achieved in the sport of cycling, regardless of discipline.

Cycle influencer

People inspiring others or creating change through a variety of means – active travel campaigners, local politicians, social media stars, journalists, filmmakers and artists who promote cycling to their audiences.

Industry mogul

Women breaking down barriers and creating female-friendly spaces in the cycling industry – business owners and others who represent women in the bike trade at different levels, bike mechanics, designers of bikes, accessories and cycling fashion.

Sarah Mitchell, Cycling UK's chief executive, said: 

“There’s no denying that women face more barriers to taking up cycling. The women we celebrate are breaking those down and we want to shine a spotlight on their hard work.

“Whatever your background or ability, there are so many benefits to reap from cycling, not least the joy it brings. Every nomination represents a unique story of determination, passion and dedication to making cycling accessible to all. Help us celebrate the achievements of these women and inspire others to join the movement towards a more diverse and equitable cycling world.”

For more information and to nominate someone, visit Cycling UK’s 100 Women in Cycling page.