In January 2015 long-time cyclists Pam Christopherson, Sarah Drilias, Julie Mainwood, Erin Ninmer and Eileen Seeger launched “The Velo Femmes,” a team consisting of approximately 25 Milwaukee-area women who like to ride their road bikes--FAST!!!! The "Founding Five," and many of the team members, have spent several years riding with and mentoring to women in “sofa to saddle” programs, and still do. However, there were limited opportunities to ride fast without leaving slower women riders behind. So, we created a niche team of women who can handle a fast, challenging ride! The Velo Femmes ("VF") provide an avenue for advanced-female cyclists who are passionate about challenging themselves and each other in the sport, to hone their skills to become stronger and safer riders, and be the best stewards of cycling in Milwaukee. Team members include experienced riders, endurance athletes, and current and former racers. We promote and encourage the sport and community spirit, and use our talents and abilities to their full potential. We offer weekly rides, skills clinics, and promote the cycling community through membership in the Wisconsin Bike Fed and supporting local cycling groups and events. The VF Rides are for strong, fast female cyclists who can roll at a speed of 20 mph (….or so) on the flats. This ride is for women who have the endurance to ride distances of 30+ miles at these speeds, can ride in a pace line comfortably and demonstrate advanced bike handling skills. There is no “ride leader” on our rides, but the route will be posted. The route does include sprints at specified points with cool down sections to regroup. When the sprint sections start, riders must be comfortable with high-speed pack riding or content to ride off the back. This ride is for independent, self-reliant, experienced cyclists. This is a drop ride, however riders may string out into smaller groups riding the same speeds. Minimum Cyclist Requirements: • You love to ride fast (can maintain 17-23mph in a group ride) • You are outside on your bike as much as possible (ride 100 miles/week) • You love your bike and it shows (maintain your bike and can change a flat tire) • You obey all rules of the road • You have advanced bike-handling skills (can ride in pace line, two across touching elbows, and pinkies and can comfortably draft behind another rider no more than one wheel length) • You are positive and encouraging & You enjoy being pushed outside of your comfort zone!!
