With a motto of ‘Melbourne’s cycling club made for everyone’, its clear inclusion is a key pillar of the Hawthorn Cycling Club’s DNA.
Comprising around 500 members, one of the club’s key aims is to foster a culture that welcomes everyone who share a passion for cycling.
Whether that's through the junior development program, one of three annual camps, or its regular club rides, Hawthorn Cycling Club has become a key pillar in the Melbourne cycling community.
In that same spirit of inclusion, the club’s ShePeaks program is helping women take on their next cycling challenge
Open to members and non-members, ShePeaks is for women preparing for one of Australia’s hardest gran fondos, Peaks Challenge Falls Creek, where women make up less than 10% of participants. The club makes the challenge more achievable through group rides, skills coaching, information sessions, and training camps.
“ShePeaks is first and foremost about creating a community,” said Amy Sudibyo, Hawthorn Cycling Club Women's Officer.
“We know that women have the tendency to doubt themselves and are more likely to commit to something when they know other people are participating. Whether someone is aiming for their first Peaks Challenge or their third, hopefully our community helps them feel supported along the journey.”
Since launching, the program has generated strong community interest, with dedicated social channels, ride groups, and active discussions helping riders connect and support one another throughout their training journey.
Whether it’s their first gran fondo or their thirty-first, Hawthorn Cycling Club is helping more women believe they belong on the start line.
Photos: supplied
AusCycling's 'Clubs in Focus' series showcases the outstanding things that our clubs are doing at the grassroots. If you have a great story about your club, let us know at [email protected].