Audrey Christie: Celebrating milestones on International Women’s Day with Breeze

Breeze & Guided Rides Leader, Audrey Christie, was joined by fellow Durham leaders and riders as she led her 300th Breeze ride last month. The occasion celebrated the community in which Audrey has helped create, as well as through her former role of North East Area Coordinator and involvement with the Regional Committee. Fellow leader and friend of Audrey’s, Jacki Patrickson, shares her account of the day with us.

Aptly falling on the weekend of International Women’s Day, the group enjoyed a scenic route around Washington, Durham, which drew attention to a local statue of Gertrude Bell. Born in Washington and travelling the world as an explorer, Gertrude was a 19th Century archaeologist almost exclusively in the realm of men. It was symbolic to cycle past the statue as Gertrude defied many gender norms and stereotypes of the feminine role in the period and became the first woman to graduate from Oxford University with a first-class degree.

The sun shining very much matched the tone of the ride with temperatures reaching 20-degrees on the Sunday morning, perfect for the off-bike celebrations at the coffee stop. These consisted of cards, cakes, and even a song created and sang for Audrey, accompanied by a crown that was knitted for the occasion by fellow Breeze Champion, Maureen Dewell.

A surprise visit from North East Board Chair, Steve Tunmore was also arranged. Having joined the group on previous momentous rides in the area, Steve’s attendance further recognised the milestone and celebrated Audrey’s contribution to cycling in Durham.

“I think there was a tiny part of Audrey who might have been expecting an appearance, so she was thrilled and it added a nice touch to what was already a magical day”.

When asked how Audrey inspires those around her, we were told; “As one of the first Breeze Champions in the North East, Audrey has played a vital part in building the local Breeze community. This has involved recruiting other Champions and supporting them to gain their ride leadership qualifications, instilling confidence to lead and create routes, while of course celebrating them in their successes”.

Audrey also has a history of epic cycles, namely Durham to Capetown in just eighteen months.

“Audrey was one of the first Cycling UK “Top 100 women in cycling” and is always keen to help people with bike maintenance and top tips for off-the-bike things too. Audrey encourages people to connect with each other outside of rides which has resulted in a strong social network within the Breeze community and the spirit of this ride demonstrated just that”.

 “Ever since Breeze began in Durham, we’ve always been celebrating International Women’s Day so this year was extra special. Days like today make you realise how far we’ve come”

In terms of the future for Audrey’s rides, a focus on recruiting new Champions to keep the Breeze community growing in the North East is key. Using current Facebook groups and local sport centres to make Breeze visible to the local public is important in sharing the message that it’s fun and accessible to people, regardless of cycling background.

When asked what rest of the UK Breeze Community should adopt from Audrey and Breeze North East, Jacki said; “Both Audrey and I would say to visit the North East! We love to welcome other Breeze Champions and riders on their travels and offer advice on the best local routes. We take full advantage of our Breeze network when we do away days in different places and love meeting up with other Breeze Champions for advice on the area for rides too.”