Where are you from originally?
I've lived most of my life in the UK, primarily south-west England and London. I moved to Boston a couple of years ago and am very happy to call it my new home!
When did you start cycling, and what got you into it?
I would commute every day in London for almost a decade, but I really fell in love with road cycling whilst on holiday in Tuscany six years ago. So much so, I impulse-bought my first road bike from the bike rental company in Florence and shipped it home (my beautiful black Colnago).
When did you join CRW, and what brought you to the club?
I joined CRW in my first week of moving to Boston, and attended the Praline Croissant ride five days after landing. I wanted to hit the ground riding, so to speak! I figured I'd find my new community in cycling (and I was right!)
Do you volunteer for CRW, and if so, in what way(s)?
Yes! I'm a ride leader and co-run the Women's/Nonbinary program with Melissa Quirk. Being part of the committee is so rewarding: I get to put on the rides I love most, and get to contribute to making rides more social and welcoming places, both for the women's program and co-ed social rides.
What type of cycling do you enjoy the most?
I love riding rolling countryside hills, whether around my hometown in England, back in Tuscany, or in the suburbs of Boston. I also love riding gravel; there's nothing quite like riding through a peaceful woodland.
What’s your favorite ride or route?
My favourite ride is the Friday Praline Croissant. It was my first ride with CRW and the one that welcomed me to Boston. I've made so many friends there and it's become the highlight of my week.
What has been your favorite moment or experience with CRW?
There have been so many, it's hard to pick just one! The best feeling though is when a ride that I helped organise all comes together and everyone has a wonderful time. A recent highlight for me was the 4th of July ride out of Lexington and the tailgate party at the finish.
What advice would you give a new CRW member?
Try a whole bunch of different rides on the calendar, but especially the social ones. It can be a little daunting with the number of people in the club, but we're all very friendly and you'll soon find your own favourite regular rides.
What’s a fun fact about you (cycling or non-cycling)?
I was born in Baku, Azerbaijan, and actually spent a number of years in upstate NY in my childhood! That's why answering the question 'where are you from' has always been rather difficult for me.
What do you enjoy most about being part of CRW?
What I enjoy most about CRW is the community of people I've met who willingly volunteer their time to lead rides, run social events, and keep the club a welcoming place for all types of riders. I love that I get to be a part of that.
Anything else you'd like the club to know?
Just a huge thank you to everyone at CRW who's made Boston feel like home. Moving somewhere new is never easy, but finding this community made all the difference.
