Womens' Cycling Ulster Introduce Gravel Biking At Their Big Day Out

The Big Day Out was the brain child of Claire Young who is a member ofthe Cycling Ulster Women’s Commission and sits on the Cycling Ireland board. Claire is an advocate for women in cycling and has developed the Women on Wheels programme, a club-based grass roots initiative designed to increase female participation and membership in cycling, both on and off road. Her vision was to bring  women from all over the country together to ride their bikes and so, in 2022 the Big Day Out was born.

The goal was then to make the Big Day Out 2023 even bigger being held over two days with coach-led rides and workshops being brought to Tollymore National Outdoors Centre on 23 and 24th September 2023.

There were workshops including Yoga for cyclists, by Lucy,  breath work and meditation with Yogafitforsport, strength and conditioning with StrenghtFarm, bike maintenance by Craig Rea, cornering skills session with Ian Bailey, Steep drops with Iain Snedden,  try an E Bike with Phillip McCallen and of course test ride a Fustle Causeway Gravel bike (or as it was described on the day 'adventure bike').

No Surprise the Fustle Causeway bike fleet booked up fast on the pre booking site but  Alastair and Julie were on hand to get everyone sized and familiarised with their bikes (even managed to co ordinate the colour options with their outfits). The group ride headed off in the morning for a 2 our loop ride in and around the stunning trails and fire roads of Tollymore Forest park.  Everyone  thoroughly enjoyed the ride out that was lead by Trail guide Chris Corey and Julie went along to give useful tips and advice along the way. 

 There was plenty of chat and great questions about the bikes and the brand etc.   A lot was learned on the route about the History of Fustle, the group were interested to hear how  and why the bike was designed  right here in Northern Ireland by Alastair Beckett and the very fitting brand story of the model name 'Causeway' and then joining the dots with the decals on the frame etc. 

We had a great day out, was great to be part of such a well organised event and it was very clear to see that the work that went into organising the Big Day Out was very much appreciated by everyone who attended.

We are all ready excited to be part of 2024's Big Day Out.

Thanks for inviting us along and keep up the great work!