Felicity Dales

I got back on my bike just over 10 years ago after having a long break. I raced in triathlons in my early twenties. Then I was focused on my business and had 3 boys in quick succession so was busy with that.  I got back on my bike and started riding and realised that to go further I needed to join a bunch – so I found a bunch to ride with and loved it.

I then progressed to doing some participation rides and charity rides, which really challenged me.   I loved the challenge to push myself to try to keep up, getting fitter, it was social and I love being outdoors.

I rode Falls Creek a few years ago on a really hot day (with a few flies). It was a great achievement and beautiful scenery, so I was very chuffed.  This year I went up with a group and predominantly rode on my own but loved it.

I love the sense of freedom, fresh air, quiet time and the social time if you go out with a bunch and the feeling after a ride after a shower – its priceless! It’s the little things in life that bring me the greatest joy!

Initially it seemed like I was always training for something and I used to ride 4-5 times per week, which I loved.  But I have mellowed a bit perhaps and am interested in other activities as well, [so now I ride] 2-3 times per week other than winter. It’s more important to me to be healthy, fit and enjoy life on a day-to-day basis rather than punishing myself to try to keep up. So my focus has changed as I am changing.  This has caused me to reflect on what is important to me and have ascertained that I just love being outside participating and Riding, Living It!