That’s the feeling I had when reading my friend announce her new role as a Rapha ride leader.

I started cycling 2 years ago, I do not go to a lot of group rides and had never been on a Rapha ride, not because I’m not welcomed, I was invited to a Rapha ride back in December, I just never went to one because it doesn’t necessarily look inviting for nontraditional cyclists. Since being in the Cycling space, I have been to more rides than I can count that I have been the only black woman there, especially outside of LA. I feel great for being brave enough to get out to these places, but it’s a little tough not having someone with similar life experiences around, someone you don’t have to translate your facial expressions to, or explain why my hair grew overnight, or why you’re slightly off after hearing, passive racist comments on a ride.

On Sunday September 17, 2023. I got to experience my 1st Rapha ride, with a bunch of my friends. Shauna Howard, who literally is one of the main reasons I even found cycling, Mattia Day, who has been my A1 since day 1 ride or die, Rema Morgan, who is my new besfraaannn (we are almost birthday twins, I love it), and Queen Timia Porter my true friend, therapist at times, Shining for us all.

These moments are significant for many reasons. 1) There has been no time in history that women cycling has been so accepted & celebrated. 2) It is beautiful to see Black women celebrating one another instead of competing. 3) It takes courage to stand up and be the 1st and drown out other’s judgment and opinions.

I write this from my perspective. As a woman IN the cycling space, It is important and I am proud to celebrate my friends achievements. Keep shining 💫