Kerstin completed the 65-mile Silver Route at Break the Cycle 2018 and says she will be back for more this year.
“A friend of my mine took part in Break the Cycle 2017 and alerted me to the stellar work the Bristol Sport Foundation is doing with a wide range of local communities in Bristol,” she said.
“I cycle, but nothing close to a 65-mile ride into the hills of Wales. Fortunately, the team organises practice rides, and my first one was a 50+ mile ride to Berkeley and back with a lot of serious cyclists.
“I nearly chickened out, but they meant it when they said, ‘don’t worry, we’ll break for coffee and cake!”
“I loved the camaraderie and was proud to have more than doubled my cycling distance, but certainly felt every muscle in my 53-year-old body, not to mention sitting bone at the end of the ride.
“The big day arrived with sunny weather and trepidation in my heart. I needn’t have worried – some of the hills were a killer, but I conquered them all and loved every minute. Everything is possible with a support from your friends and the great and non-competitive team spirit of the event!
“Taking part in Break the Cycle has been a challenge, but also given me the confidence to go on long solo rides myself, can’t wait for this year’s event!
“I passionately believe that an active and healthy lifestyle can empower and help with many prevalent mental health issues in young people.
“It is fantastic that Bristol Sport Foundation keeps girls in sports, works with young people in disadvantaged communities, provides nutritional education in primary schools and sports opportunities for disabled people.
“The social committee of my employer matched the sponsorship money I had raised and I know that Bristol Sport Foundation will put it where it is needed most.”
Photo: Kerstin Reichmann (left) and Paula Bradshaw (right) on the BTC 2018 Silver Route.
