Sixty-three-year-old woman credits BMX with providing a “lifeline”

A woman, aged 63, stated that she became part of a BMX group because she “got to an age where I felt I hadn’t lived and I wanted to do something different”. Allison Randlesome characterized her engagement with the sport as a lifeline. She recounted, “The first three times I was here doing it I was terrified and I thought why am I doing this?” She added, “Then after that every little jump and every little corner started to become very, very rewarding and very exciting.” The BMXercise sessions, held at the Cornwall BMX Track, situated near Blackwater, constitute an Access Sport initiative, receiving support from British Cycling. The program’s objective is to encourage more adults to cycle. Ms Randlesome mentioned that her initial participation in these sessions three years prior was prompted by a dare. She remarked, “Every little thing became a big thing and an achievement.” She further commented, “I love it, it’s like a big family.” Tracey Clapton, a British Cycling Community Coach, clarified that the weekly classes are available to anyone seeking to enhance their mental and physical health. She stated, “I love giving back to the sport that is my love.” She elaborated, “Giving them [the women] the confidence to have a go, building their own self-esteem and doing something they’ve never done before.” Readers can follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook, and Instagram, and submit story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. This content is Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites and provides information regarding its approach to external linking.