Every.Day.Ride #4 with Louise Vardeman

Tell us a little about yourself?

I'm Lou, a 44-year-old cyclist and mother of two boys. I'm an Events Manager and travel the world often! I'm currently recovering from a broken hip. I'm a keen advocate for equality within sports, but particularly cycling. I founded the InternationElles cycling team, 10 amateur female cyclists that campaign to try and close the gender gap in cycling.

How and when did you get into riding?

I got into cycling following repeated running injuries about 10 years ago.

What are the best and worst things about riding?

The best things about riding are the freedom and headspace it gives me. The people I met, the places I go. The fact it is good for my body and mind.

The worst things are that it's addictive and can get very expensive!!!

Tell us about your most memorable ride to date?

My most memorable ride is in 2019 when I rode the full route of the Tour de France the day before the men's professional race. All of the 21 Stages to campaign for a women's version of the race!

What's the best piece of riding advice you've ever been given?
Invest in a bike fit and good clothing. Padded shorts are a must!

What do you bring with you on every ride?

Snacks!

How do you keep your bikes secure at home and on the go? Share your best tips to help others keep their bikes safe.

I treat my bike like the precious item that it is! I never leave it out of my sight without securing it. I have both a GPS tracker on it and use a Litelok bike lock, better to be safe than sorry! At home my bike lives in my house, much harder to get into than a shed or garage.

When someone asks what kit you recommend, you say?

Yes, back to those padded shorts!!!

What's on your riding bucket list?

Right now, the idea of riding is pretty glorious sounding! I don't even care where, I've been off my bike through injury for months and I'm missing it! I love completing the epic climbs in the Alps, there's still a few more that I haven't conquered!