They say you never forget how to ride a bike – and Dundee’s senior cyclists are proof that you can get back on the saddle, even after a break of more than 50 years.
A new scheme to get people onto two wheels well into retirement has been launched, with the backing of ultra-endurance athlete and Dundee University rector Mark Beaumont.
Mark, who recently smashed a Guinness World Record by biking around the world in 79 days, met the cyclists at Dundee University’s Riverside football pitches and led them on their first trip along the city’s public roads.
The ride-out was part of the Active Senior Cyclist programme developed by university staff and Cycling Scotland.
Mark said: “I am absolutely thrilled to come back to Dundee and get back in the saddle for such a good cause.
“I started my first ever cycling adventure across Scotland from Discovery Point at the age of 12 and I’ve been passionate about cycling and this city ever since.
“Cycling is such a simple way to get around without polluting, to keep healthy, to be sociable and to explore.”
One of the senior cyclists taking part was Alexis Fitzgerald, 61, who started the hobby last year after a battle with cancer.
She explained: “I needed to get a bit fitter so I got involved with the Dundee University seniors programme.
“I got a wee bit stronger, and then I heard about the cycling opportunity. I hadn’t been on a bike since I was eight or nine and was absolutely terrified.
“But the organisers have been wonderful, they got me kitted out with the right gear.
“This is just week three of the course and I’ve been able to stay upright – so far so good.”
Keith Irving, chief executive of Cycling Scotland, said: “Some people haven’t been on their bikes for years, or decades and they’re using new, electric bikes to get active.
“Cycling Scotland and the university are providing the skills so that they can get around every day on their bike.
“We all know how important it is to be active for your physical and mental health, and cycling is a fantastic way of getting physical activity into everyday life.”
