06/12/2019 - Women of Steel in Leeds

The Women of Steel headed to Leeds Urban Bike Park for a day of 'sessioning', aiming to improve skills on drops, jumps and cornering rather than a doing a big ride. Sarah Weir organised the day, here's what they got up to.

Last Saturday, the Cotic Women Of Steel braved sub-zero temperatures and headed North from Cotic HQ to Leeds Urban Bike Park. We were a mix of WoS regulars and first timers to the group.

There’s a lot of variety at LUBP: from a steady blue run, pump track, BMX park, woodland red and green routes, black chutes and a couple of jump lines. We started on the blue to warm up then did a circuit of the park so everyone could get a feel for what was on offer. It’s been designed so that all the technical features are progressive and you can choose to push yourself as much or as little as you like. There was encouragement and advice as we approached the chutes with everyone choosing their own limits. It was great to see demons being banished and the smiling of success.

There was more “Sesh-Oning” (is that really a word Kelly?) on drops and berms before we drifted back towards the café for hot drinks and lunch. I say “drifted” because a splinter group were persuaded on to the jump line….just to see. It was loads of fun. Until it wasn’t. Nothing too serious but enough to make me think “I might stop now. Now where’s my cup of tea?”

I had a great day hanging out with some awesome women. It’s not just about the riding. It’s an opportunity to catch up, swap tips, covert/try out each other’s kit and have a giggle. Hope to see you all on the next meet up