Julie Turner becomes third Breeze Champion to lead 1000 rides
Julie trained as a Breeze Champion in 2012 following her involvement as a cycling instructor in other Let’s Ride programmes. Since founding a group named after David Hockney’s ‘The Four Seasons’—inspired by landscapes near Driffield, East Yorkshire—Julie has drawn parallels between cycling and life’s changing seasons. Becoming the third Champion to reach 1000 rides within East Yorkshire is quite the achievement. Julie’s response to this was “It’s the water up here! It’s a big county so there is room for even more. We’re just so lucky to be surrounded by such enthusiastic people and as Breeze Champions, we never get tired of it.”
When asked for the biggest lesson she’s learnt as a Ride Leader, Julie expressed cycling’s ability to bring people together. Women from her Breeze group have become friends outside of cycling, some even rekindling school-day friendships. “One of the biggest lessons I’ve learnt is to never take anything for granted”, Julie told us, “don’t assume you can’t learn something from each ride”. As a Bikeability instructor, Julie recognises how this is consistent across generations and believes keeping a high safety standard regardless of the ride level/ type is key.
Julie’s contribution to the Breeze community has helped establish its name and purpose across the country. “I’ve never been on a ride and not enjoyed it”, she said, “the health and well-being benefits are unmatched”. Her ‘open to all’ approach has introduced her to a diverse range of participants - “the women I meet are so talented and some travel from afar, a testament to the community we’ve built”. The community is also one that Julie’s daughter, Hattie, is part of. As a London-based Breeze Champion, the pair enjoy discussing their experiences of leading and different ideas for future rides.
With a mission to instil confidence in all participants, Julie feels she has done her job when people have been encouraged to ride a bike through her group. Whether it is those simply attending one ride to gain confidence to go out alone, or regular riders who feel the benefit of being with others for security, Julie finds the Breeze community wholesome and full of positivity.
Since leading 1000 Breeze rides, and reflecting on her journey as a leader, Julie recalls several moments that showcase the impact of Breeze. One involved listing a 100-mile ride, to prove to participants that they are capable of more than they think. By maintaining a steady pace with regular café stops, Julie ensured everyone felt a sense of accomplishment by the end. Another example is a woman who has recently started riding in Julie’s Breeze group since moving to the area and wanted to get to know her new home. “Cycling is a life skill which is why Breeze is the best network in Britain”, Julie said, “it gives people an outlet to form friendships in an environment which is always evolving, including people who are new to the area.”
When asked to offer advice for anyone considering becoming a ride leader, Julie said “it is about taking small steps first and trusting in your own ability. When you break it down into chunks, like picking a route and understanding how a group works, it is so achievable”. Julie also emphasised that having a passion for improving people’s confidence is essential when helping others find their passion for cycling too.
Looking ahead to future rides, Julie is keen to continue exploring different themes that keep things interesting – “I’ve got a few ideas for themes, we’re always looking up to the stars”. “I’m eager to continue nurturing this national community and keep in touch with our relatives all over the country”. Julie remains committed to welcoming regular participants and supporting their personal goals.
