A keen cyclist is saddling up to launch Nantwich’s first dedicated Cycling Club.
Darren Knights says Nantwich Cycle Group is for locals who just want to ride as a group and not on their own or with a traditional club.
“We are looking for as many members at all levels and experience as possible from beginners, sportive enthusiast or even racers,” he said.
“Anyone who wants to go on a ride when it is convenient for group members and not just one set date and time a week!”
Darren (pictured), a keen cyclist for six years after taking it up to get fit and lose weight, saw the need for a club soon after he moved to Nantwich six years ago.
“I tried to find a club here and I was surprised to find given how popular cycling is here, that there wasn’t one in Nantwich.
“The nearest I could find is Crewe Clarions in Crewe and Audlem Cycle Club.
“I have been out a few times with the Audlem club and they are a great group, but unfortunately don’t do club rides during the week and due to family commitments I find it difficult to go on the Sunday rides they do.
“This was initially what inspired me to create a group for Nantwich but instead of going down the route of creating a club, I felt there would be a lot of people like me that need more flexibility than they can normally get with a traditional cycle club.
“Like me some people can’t do Sunday rides while others can’t do Saturday or evening rides or some may work shifts and want to go out at different times of the day.
“Another benefit of this type of group is it is much more informal so less intimidating to attend as a beginner. There is no pressure to buy club clothing or anything else that might make it feel in anyway elitist to new members.
“Anyone can turn up on the rides they want to when they want to, even if they are in a club already, even someone visiting can come along.”
Darren has created a Facebook group for the club which will allow members to share with friends and post suggestions for different rides and different times.
You can also join the club at its Strava page here.
“Group policy is nobody gets left behind on any rides under any circumstance!” Darren added.
“I don’t want anyone to feel under pressure to keep up, this will put new members off. The group will always wait and slow the pace to make sure that doesn’t happen.”
“When rides build in popularity then I plan to encourage the organisation as follows to ensure the faster or more competitive riders also get what they want from the group too which is important.”
Anyone interested or wants more information, they can contact Darren on [email protected]
[email protected] is failing when i send a email?
thanks for alerting us, we will check with the club and let you know!