Following her incredible exploits this year, The Tour 21’s Jackie Fowler has today been named in CyclingUK’s 100 Women in Cycling in 2022.
All nominees have been classified into four categories (Community Champion, Industry Mogul, Cycle Influencer and Sporting Hero) with 60 year old Jackie nominated under the Community Champion bracket after raising over £37,000 for Cure Leukaemia.
The 100 Women in Cycling list celebrates inspirational women who are encouraging others to experience the joy of cycling. Every year they highlight 100 exceptional women who promote cycling and encourage others to take part. They celebrate inspirational women who are leading by example.
The Tour 21 brings together a group of amateur cyclists annually to take on the biggest endurance challenge of their lives, the Tour de France – of which, Jackie was part of the Class of ’22.
Affectionately known as ‘the punisher’, she’s always supporting others to ride out of their comfort zone; you’ll often find her giving sweets to those struggling. She’s hosted Couch to 50km courses which have encouraged new members.
Speaking about the nomination, Jackie was honoured to have made the shortlist:
“When taking on the Tour 21 Challenge I had 3 objectives in mind .. “
“First and foremost was to raise £30,000 for Cure Leukaemia and thanks to the generosity of over 400 people, I managed to exceed that and raise £37,500. I am so proud that when I told my story along with the story of Cure Leukaemia and the Trials Acceleration Programme (TAP) that so many people were willing to support me.”
“Secondly, I wanted to enjoy being in a team of cyclist on this massive challenge. Not long after signing up I realised I wasn’t just part of a cycling team; I was part of the Cure Leukaemia team. The trust and confidence that James, Joe and Andy put in me was unbelievable, thanks to the ride leaders and The Tour 21 support team, in both France and the UK, it was an unbeatable experience that I’ve enjoyed every minute of.”
“Finally, I wanted to show that gender and age are not barriers, I wanted to inspire others to know that whoever you are, those big challenges are possible, say ‘yes’ when asked to do something that might at first feel daunting and don’t think “Can do it?” – just get out there do it and keep going.”
“My inclusion in the ‘Cycling UK top 100 Women in Cycling’ as a Community Champion is humbling, there are so many great achievements by amazing women, and it brings home what I have done this year. I am a 60-year-old grandmother and have completed one of the world’s toughest sporting challenges, raised £37,500 and shown that there are no barriers, with the right support and encouragement we can do anything.”
