It’s not every day that you can learn about road and track mountain biking and BMX. This will be possible this Monday at an activity for girls and women in Estrie.
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100% Women’s Day is being held in partnership with the Quebec Federation of Cycling Sports at the new National Cycling Center in Bromont.
“There will be trainers, conferences and workshops on site on nutrition, mechanics and even yoga,” explained event ambassador Marie-Soleil Blais, former member of the national team and professional athlete. . Everything will be inclusive and free.”
“And it’s not just for those in the know, it’s also for the intermediate and advanced level enthusiast,” added the man who made the transition from collegiate and pro hockey to competitive cycling at the age of 23.
A real need
When Blais started offering classes and workouts on YouTube last fall, he quickly realized that women didn’t have the resources to improve.
“No fewer than 240 women have registered. “Some have written to me that it has changed their lives,” said the 34-year-old athlete.
“I didn’t know how great the need was. There is never anyone who teaches women to ride bikes. Women don’t have enough confidence to join clubs,” she continued.
Photo courtesy of Marie-Soleil Blais
Cyclist Marie-Soleil Blais wore the colors of the prestigious Astana team in 2019.
“It can be super intimidating”
On Monday there will be no men pedaling “faster than us” in Bromont, the native of Saint-Rosaire, near Victoriaville, recalls. “It can be very intimidating.”
On this day of national patriots, around 200 girls and women are expected in Bromont to awake possible dreams.
“The bike is not just a form of exercise or a means of transportation. It’s also a sport where you’re free,” said Blais.