Big uptick in female race licence holders, says British Cycling

Since 2013 there has been a 43% increase in competitive female cyclists holding a British Cycling race licence, the organisation has said.

It was 2013 when British Cycling launched a drive to boost female participation to get more than one million cycling by 2020. On the competitive front at least, this is certainly happening, shows the latest data.

Jonny Clay, British Cycling’s director of cycling, said: “We have put in a considerable amount of work over the past few years – supported by the commitment of our volunteer organisers and officials – to ensure that cycling is a sport that appeals to everyone by taking positive steps that we believe have helped to close the gender gap.

“The growing number of women now holding race licences is a great indication that this work is paying off, and the steps we have taken to grow the profile of the HSBC UK Women’s National Road Series, in particular ensuring equal prize money, are indicative of our determination to continue the progress of women’s road racing.”

The announcement comes as organisers prepare for this weekend’s Tour of the Wolds, the first event of the Women’s National Road Series.