The Velociposse Crit racing at Herne Hill Velo was great fun. It was a relaxed, friendly and inclusive meet. Everyone was made to feel welcome, the way it should be in cycling.
The organisers had set up gender-inclusive race categories. It doesn’t matter how others perceive you - it’s what you believe that counts.
The heat was as punishing as the very technical course. It involved circling the main banks of the track, then some tight corners cutting into the inner circuit. Most rider raced on fixies, adding to the skills needed.
It was great to see plenty of support from other riders and the decent crowd in the stands. This wasn’t a session where track records would be broken. Cliche crap, but it genuinely was the taking part that counts.
Competitors were treated to a hose down with the track hose that is usually reserved for bike cleaning. Others chose beer in the shade to relax.
Velociposse are staging some great events around London. It’s a shame that the governing bodies don’t share their positive lead for gender-inclusivity.