Novice Bike Rider Takes On Triathlon

A 31-year-old woman who went from novice bike rider to successful triathlete in four months has praised instructors at Witton Park Cycle Centre for their one-to-one support.

May Thazin had never ridden a bike when she signed up for her first London Triathlon earlier this year and she turned to the Cycle Centre situated in Witton Park for help.

Instructors at the centre recognised the challenging task at hand and began working with May in April 2016.

May had one-to-one training at the facility with the instructors who educated her on riding techniques and skills.

On Saturday, 6th August, May completed her first London Triathlon smashing her personal best during the cycling segment by 20 minutes.

She said:

I remember thinking wow, I’ve actually done it. It was a glorious moment and one of the best feelings I’ve ever experienced. It was challenging and at times I thought I wasn’t going to finish but I completed it with a time I’m very proud of.”

During her time at the Cycle Centre, May took part in a bike maintenance course which shows riders how to change broken chains, tyres and check the overall condition of the bike.

She added:

I cannot thank the guys enough at the Cycle Centre. Not only have they taught me how to ride a bike, they spent time teaching me essential skills as a cyclist and for that I am very grateful.”

May, who previously lived in London and worked in Marketing, moved up North to help with a family business.

In the run up to the triathlon, she was training at 7am each morning before heading to her full-time job at 9am.

She trained 2-4 times a week and would also make use of the running track situated in the country park across from the Cycle Centre.

My advice for anyone considering learning to ride a bike is go for it regardless of your age or ability, the Cycle Centre will be on hand to support you every step of the way.”

Once you’ve got the hang of riding a bike, you’ve got it and you’ll never forget. Not only can I ride a bike, it helped build my confidence and improve my skills and overall fitness. It’s not just the physical benefit but it’s the mental benefit.”

The Cycle Centre run by Blackburn with Darwen Council provides instructor led sessions for beginners and bike hire facilities for those who want to explore the cycling routes around the park and local canal.

Councillor Damian Talbot, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Young People, said:

This is an absolutely fantastic achievement and I want to give May my biggest congratulations. Completing a triathlon is a real feat but going from being a non-cyclist to this level in just four months is amazing.

The instructors at Witton Park Cycle Centre do an incredible job and this shows you can learn to ride a bike at any age – I hope people wanting to get pedalling themselves will give it a go. It is great exercise and great fun, and as May shows, can lead to great things.”

For more information, visit www.refreshbwd.com