Whether it’s one mile or 100 miles, and regardless of the type of bike or cycling discipline, the goal is to create a buzz around women and girls cycling outdoors. We spoke with Diane Maciver and Lorna Breetzke, the driving forces behind the project, to learn more.
Both Diane and Lorna share a deep passion for cycling. Diane tells us she’s always enjoyed cycling, but it wasn’t until her 40s that she truly embraced it, seeking the challenge of longer rides and sportive events. Her bond with cycling grew stronger after a traumatic event, as bike rides became a form of therapy while dealing with the grief of losing her best friend.
Lorna was introduced to cycling by her husband in 2017. After going through a tough time, she, too, fell in love with the sport for its therapeutic benefits. She quickly discovered her passion for riding fast and, for the past four years, has competed in road races, time trials, and gravel events—spending two years with Vanelli Project Go and returning last year to her home club, Elgin CC.
Elgin Cycling Club is challenging the trend of underrepresentation of women in cycling, growing its female membership through women-only rides and promoting female-focused marketing and social media. Diane and other members also volunteer as Breeze Champions, leading fun, friendly, and free rides to help women get back into cycling. Diane serves as the club’s Vice Chair, while Lorna is the Chair, and both are part of the regional committee for the North.
Lorna shared that there’s something special about women-only rides: “The chat is next level—lots of laughter and always a buzz at our meeting point.” She also emphasized, “These rides provide a vital space for women to feel supported and empowered, especially for those new to cycling or who feel intimidated in mixed-gender groups.” Diane agrees, noting that the Breeze rides she leads “create a safe, welcoming environment where participants can ride at their own pace, build confidence, and connect with others who share similar experiences. It’s not just about the ride—it’s about fostering camaraderie and helping women enjoy cycling without pressure or judgment.”
The idea for She Pedals Scotland was born out of a desire to help more women (re)discover the joy and benefits of cycling. Lorna mentioned that the idea came to her as she was trying to sleep. She and Diane brainstormed, and soon after, they approached Neil Wilson, Club Development Officer at Scottish Cycling, who then brought in Melanie Toner, Women and Girls Development Manager.
Diane expressed that she wants every woman and girl to experience cycling, feel the same love and passion she has for it, and have a special day to celebrate women and girls on bikes. She emphasized that the type of bike is not important—it’s about finding the right one for you.
Similarly, Lorna hopes other women will experience the same joy cycling brings her—not necessarily riding fast, but simply being outdoors, meeting others in the cycling community, and enjoying the physical and mental health benefits. She also wants to show clubs that women enjoy cycling together, no matter the pace. “Many women feel intimidated or excluded in male-dominated events, so creating more women-only spaces can make cycling more welcoming for beginners and those lacking confidence.”
Lorna is also focused on creating a sense of camaraderie, support, and opportunities for networking and friendships. She hopes these spaces will encourage conversations about female-specific challenges and help facilitate female-led solutions.
The She Pedals Scotland team invites women and girls across Scotland to connect with them on social media (Facebook and Instagram), sign up (registration opens in April), and consider hosting a ride or small event in your local community to help create a buzz around cycling! Every woman and girl is welcome to participate, whether they plan a solo ride, join a women-only ride, or take part in a mixed-group activity. Stay tuned for more details on how to register, and we look forward to seeing you all pedalling across Scotland on June 14th!