Many of the all-women team hadn’t been on a bike since they were kids, let alone chosen to cycle the 180-mile distance before, some were experienced athletes, but all came at it from a position of camaraderie, friendship, team spirit and more than a little resilience – the WiP ethos on wheels!
Speaking on the Start line Maddie Difazio Wright, the driving force behind the ride and creator of WiP Sweatworking, said,
“The difference between an ordeal and an adventure is attitude. Each person here has their own reason for doing this event and I urge you to be aware of that. Someone stood next to you has an internal driver than you won’t see. Take the time to find that out, because the people we meet are often carrying gifts we cannot see.”
The trip wasn’t without its challenges – a cancelled ferry meant cycling through France at 5am, Paris roads were closed off and the ride rerouted because the Pope was in town, and there were the inevitable mechanicals but everyone responded with wonderfully good humour, and mutual support, all under the guidance of the amazing team from Discover Adventure.
The final destination was the iconic Eiffel Tower, the perfect place for a team photo opportunity, followed that evening with a celebration party and the ‘Ultimate Spirit of the Ride’ Award.
A huge thank you to our sponsors MUSE, Highgate Transportation, Harley Haddow, CitiVale, CDA Architects and of course us, Women in Property. It was through you – and 51 determined women - that all of this was possible.