When Katie Barnes of Champion Cycling approached her manager about starting an all-women’s bike collective, they quickly gave her the go-ahead.
Now, in its third month, and graced with a cool name at that, Champion Chicks is steadily growing in numbers and events all throughout Jacksonville.
"I wanted to start a group that was focused on women, and the owners were so supportive," said Barnes. "It’s definitely a collective, and welcomes all levels of riders from those with rusted-up bikes to those with the all carbon framed $5,000 road bikes."
When their not cruising down the streets at the Beaches or in Mandarin, you catch the chicks at Champion Cycling getting schooled by the experts on how to change a flat by throwing on their aprons and really getting their hands dirty. Normally they get to meet the manager of the shop, and every seminar zeros in on a different topic.
"Women are generally intimidated about asking questions, but this is an absolutely open discussion, come one and all," said Barnes. "It really brings together women from all walks of life, all professions and most leave with new friends."
When zooming around town with effeminate charm, the ladies can either choose to race or can just go at their own leisurely pace and simply enjoy the ride.
Currently, their Facebook group, Facebook.com/championcycles, has 100 members, and their last two rides attracted about 25 women each and growing.
If interested in joining Champion Chicks, you can visit its Facebook page that lists all of their upcoming events, or e-mail Barnes at katie@cyclechicjacksonville.com
(904)285-8831
July 24th 2010 - 11:51AM