Celebrating International Women's Day
In honor of International Women's Day, we are proud to shine the spotlight on a group of amazing female-identified riders who represent Vitus. These folks are an integral part of the larger cycling community, which has made some major strides toward gender equality but still has a long way to go. We aim to work towards that goal by uplifting their voices. They are more than essential elements of the Vitus family; they embody the strength, perseverance, and determination that inspires us daily, both on and off the bike. We’d like to share that inspiration with all of you. Here they are, in their own words.
Sydney Dowd, Rider Experience Agent
What is your favorite type of ride?
The kind where you discover views that make you wish your eyes were cameras.
What's the biggest progression you have seen in the bike industry?
The growing focus on making grassroots events more attended, celebrating local involvement and advocacy for growing the community.
Who's your biggest female inspiration?
Honestly? The other women I know and am friends with who race, ride, and put in the miles and sweat to improve themselves and the sport. I have more names than I can count.
What does biking do for your spirit?
It makes you, in body and mind, more free. It has completely changed my life undeniably for the better.
BROOKE GOUDY, VITUS AMBASSADOR
Lynda Maldonado, Creative Director
What is your favorite type of ride?
Some of the best conversations happen while on group rides. There’s something special about sharing a few hours just riding that allows you to connect in a way that might not happen in other areas of life.
What's the biggest progression you have seen in the bike industry?
The move toward celebrating all types of people on bikes. Everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the many ways in which a bike can transform your life. Removing the stereotypes and barriers to access the sport are key to cycling’s future.
Who's your biggest female inspiration?
Laura Van Gilder – she’s the winningest female cyclist in American history. Not only is she an incredible athlete, she’s kind, gives back to the sport, and has a passion for rescue pups.
What does biking do for your spirit?
Riding keeps me grounded and focused on what is really important. There’s nothing like pedaling when you need to hit the reset button.
Carina Claassen, Vitus Ambassador
What is your favorite type of ride?
A big sunrise-to-sunset pedal with a great group of friends for guaranteed smiles and laughter all day.
What's the biggest progression you have seen in the bike industry?
The increase and focus on getting more women out and onto bikes, especially at a competitive and elite level. I think the women’s’ freeride movement is a perfect example of that, with events like Hangtime and Red Bull Formation. It feels like these women are really pushing each other hard and are very encouraging. They are able to make progress so quickly. It’s really cool and inspiring to see how quickly they’re catching up to what the men are doing in that space.
Another event that I think is really cool is the Sturdy Dirty. It’s a women-only enduro race. The definition of women is very inclusive there. I think that with things like racing, it can feel really difficult for under-represented communities to feel comfortable to participate. Seeing it as one of the more popular events is really cool, and I hope we are going to see more events like that in the future and get more women out on bikes.
Kirsten Mayell, Rider Experience Agent
What is your favorite type of ride?
I love the long ride where you’re not quite sure if you’ll make it back!
What's the biggest progression you have seen in the bike industry?
I’m really glad to see brands move away from “female-specific” bikes, and embrace the fact that women want to have all the options that men do – just in their size.
Who's your biggest female inspiration?
I love watching women’s road racing. Nothing makes me more motivated to get out on my bike and train! My favorite riders are Elisa Longoborghini and Kasia Niewiadoma – they really take big risks and race with passion.
What does biking do for your spirit?
Biking makes me feel powerful like nothing else can!
These women inspire us today and every day. To all the women riders out there: thank you.