Liz Begley

Interview with Liz Begley

[Originally written in 2018. Updated in 2022.]

Number of bikes?

I have 3 bikes, an Orro, a Ridgeback Supernova and a Planet X.

What do you do for a living?

I’m a retired GP.

How did you get into cycling?

In 2004, a flyer for a charity bike ride along the Nile landed on my desk. I signed up for it, completely ignoring the fact that I didn’t really cycle, although I did a lot of running. That went alright, and since then I’ve done rides for the same charity, in:

  • Cuba;
  • China;
  • Vietnam and Cambodia;
  • Tanzania and Zanzibar;
  • Madagascar;
  • and with Argentina and Chile coming up next February (2019).

How long have you cycled with Penge CC?

I was in SE20 cycles several years ago and saw a Penge CC jersey. I asked about it and joined the club straight away. At that time, we had women’s rides in the afternoons, and usually 5 to 6 of us went out.

Which group do you cycle with?

I usually ride with Short 2.

What do you like about riding with Penge CC?

I love the friendliness and inclusivity of the club, and the fact that we have so many women riding, probably because it is so welcoming. We seem to be able to accommodate a wide range of riders, from those wanting fast and/or long, to those wanting a more leisurely ride.

What is your proudest achievement in cycling?

I’m proud of my charity rides, and also doing Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 three times.

What advice would you give to someone getting into cycling?

My advice would be to get a bike and find a friendly club.

Which inspirational female sportsperson do you most admire and why?

I admire many women athletes, but, at the moment, one of the most inspirational is Laura Kenny. She is a phenomenal rider and has demonstrated that it’s possible to return to the highest level after having her baby.