My Story
Born in St Albans in 1981, I grew up in a cycling family and began racing aged 14. Trying all forms of cycling I found my love of cyclocross aged 18, when the cross season fitted conveniently around my university studies in physiotherapy.
Rapidly finding success and international opportunities I took up the sport full-time aged 23, having raced part time whilst working for the NHS following my graduation. Ten national championship and two European Championship wins were capped with a World Championship Bronze medal in 2014.
I has dedicated the 16 years of my life to racing cyclocross, and also many years to making progress for the sport towards equality for female riders. This included 4 years on the UCI cyclocross commission. These changes are as important to me as any achievement on the bike.
Highest World Championship Placing: 3rd
Highest World Cup Placing: 2nd
Highest World Ranking: 2nd
Highest National Championship Placing: 1st
Photos CoURTESY OF KRAMON
10 x British CX Champion
2 x European Champion
Helen100
In 2018, I established ‘Helen100’ to provide opportunities to young women in cyclocross. My aims to grow all categories for riders under the age of 23 by creating community, events, support and education.
Due to historical inequalities rider drop out from the sport is extremely high, which doesn’t only impact on the sport at the highest level, it has potential social impacts. We aim to increase rider retention in cycling from women riders whilst showcasing the sport at all levels in the coming seasons.
It’s essential that we create a structured pathway for young riders around the world, coupled with a strong global communication platform. Encouraging organisers globally to add categories for women of all ages will allow a pathway of progress, increased opportunity, and increased awareness. Appointing an inspirational rider ambassador from each key cyclocross market to give much needed reach and focus within geographic communities.