ANNIE Simpson rides for Trek Drops UCI Team
Annie Simpson of Trek Drops UCI Team. Picture: Col Morley
Why do you cycle?
Cycling is my stress release, my escapism. I cycle because you go to places you would never otherwise go, see views you wouldn't usually see and meet people you wouldn't usually meet.
What do you ride?
I ride a Trek Emonda as I'm part of the Trek Drops UCI Team. I have ridden all types of bikes in my time and am still a big fan of off-road riding whether it's mountain biking or cyclocross; it's so fun and keeps your skills sharp. I love racing on the road though, the buzz of working in a team, the speed, the unknown of what might happen - it's addictive.
Tell me about your favourite route?
For me there is no place like home, and if you can catch the Yorkshire Dales on a warm sunny day, then it has got to be one of the best places in the world (big statement) to ride. I would chose a route around Malham, over to Arncliffe, back via Burnsall and Bolton Abbey. You are spoilt for breath taking views, and breath-taking climbs.
Tell me about your best cycling memory?
One of my best cycling memories has to be winning Oxford Tour Series in 2012. Not the most iconic of races, I know, but for me it was a big turning point. I had just handed in my last piece of uni work in the third year and I felt like the biggest weight had been lifted. It's rare in cycling that you have these moments where everything aligns and you feel unbeatable, but that day I felt it. I could just keep pushing harder and harder until I eventually won solo. An unexpected win, but one that gave me a lot more confidence as a bike racer from that point on.
What do you consider your most important piece of cycling equipment?
Other than my bike, then maybe my power meter. I feel lost without it as I really enjoy training to numbers and have specific sessions to follow. It's I really useful tool in tracking progression too.
If you could cycle anywhere where would that be?
I have always wanted to go to New Zealand and ride. I'd do a mix of road riding and mountain biking as I feel that country has so much to offer and it looks stunning.
- Follow Annie on Twitter Annie Simpson
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