Jenna tells us about being a new MDCC member and cycling
Q: When did you start and what made you start cycling
A: I started cycling a couple of years ago purely as a means of commuting. But then I realised I actually quite enjoyed it as I love being outside, pushing myself physically but also it's a great chance to just let my thoughts wander and get some headspace after a busy week!
Q: What sort of riding do you enjoy
A: My perfect ride would be 50 miles on a sunny Sunday morning, exploring a new area of the countryside and stopping at a local farm shop for some coffee and cake!
Q: Is cycling the only sport you do
A: No - I do lots of sports! My main sport is hockey which i've played since i was 10 and I now play for Surbiton Hockey Club in the Premier League. Luckily hockey is a winter sport which gives me lots of time to ride my bike in the summer! I've recently started getting into Triathlon and when I can I also play tennis and golf. Any chance i get to go walking in the mountains I love to do that too!
Q: How often do you ride
A: At the moment I get out on the road once a week and try and get on the watt bike a couple of times a week in the gym.
Q: Other than cycling what are your other hobbies
A: I spend most of my spare time playing sport, it's definately my passion in life! I also work as a sport psychologist which is a job I love, and do quite a bit of private work in my spare time.
Q: What is your most memorable ride
A: So far probably the reliability ride 2019. It was one of my first rides at the club and I don't think I was quite prepared for it! The last 10 miles was very tough, not helped by the torrential downpour that started! Thankfully Sarah and David were very kind in waiting for me and I made it home in one piece in the end!
Q: You have only just joined MDCC, so what made you join the club
A: I've recently got into triathlon so being part of a cycling club is a great way to get some miles in on the bike, in a fun atmoshpere and with other people helping to push me and keep my speed up! I live in Maidenhead so it's perfect for me.
Q: What are your initial impressions of the club
A: Everyone has been so welcoming and friendly! Right from the start I was made to feel part of the team and despite being quite slow when i first started, i was never made to feel like I was holding anyone up. It works well spliitng off into sub-groups and certain members are great at leading the rides and bringing up the rear to make sure everyone stays together.
Q: Does anyone else in the family cycle
A: Well up until now not really, although this year my Dad has decided to cycle to all 42 Cathedrals in the UK over the course of the summer to raise money for charity!
Q: If you could have any bike what would it be
A: I am a little bit clueless about bikes so I don't really know the answer to this question...i'd have to phone a friend!
Q: Do you have any cycling events planned for 2019
A: I'm doing Ironman Hamburg in July so that is my main focus for this year. I've got various smaller triathlons planned in the lead up but in terms of just bike rides, I'm doing the Dragon Ride in June in the Brecon Beacons.
Q: What advise would you give to anyone looking to join a cycling club
A: I would highly recommend it! It's much more fun than going out on your own and I've got a lot quicker since joining Maidenhead, so it can really help with your fitness too.