Women's Road Cycling in SA - where is it headed? Why would i recommend it?

To be quite honest, this question scares me! Why, because at the moment I do not see a huge future in the sport of 'women's' cycling. Firstly, the pool is way too small and does not seem to be getting any bigger, in fact, it is decreasing. Why is this? It a dangerous sport. There have been an abundance of fatal road accidents over the past few years that would make any parent cringe when seeing their child on a bicycle! The latest huge bunch pile up at the Argus involving the elite woman certainly does not help the cause! Secondly, there is a huge shortage of sponsors floating about. Cycling over the past few years generally has had a bad rap with all the drug  controversies surrounding international pro's, the Tour de France etc.

Sad since it is one of THE true blue sports (in my mind...). Its a sport that can challenge you from the physiological to the psychological. Its both a team and an individual sport. What could be more exhilarating than achieving 'your' given potential and finding 'your' limits. Its a true blue self discovery! Whether you end up winning races or beating/ striving to beat your PB. Its true... its a challenge... a personal challenge.

I diverse from the topic... let me get back to women's cycling. I have the privilege of having coached and coaching some of SA's best woman, and when i analyze their race and training data i am struck by just how dedicated these young woman are. They are mastering life skills. They are learning that rewards are earned through hard work and dedication. That good things come to those with perseverance, stamina and self belief. They learn about humiliation, delayed gratification, sacrifice and most of all they learn to believe in themselves. What a gift!

They learn about life whilst having fun on a bike. They fall and get back up. They live to fight another day. They win some, they lose some and most of all they enjoy the journey!

So yes, as a parent or a young girl/ woman i totally understand the fear of the sport. But... the upside is super special... its a journey to knowing yourself. WOW, what an opportunity! What a sport!