Kingston Wheelers Centenary Year – Le Col

KINGSTON WHEELERS CENTENARY

As the Kingston Wheelers proudly celebrate their 100th anniversary, we delve into the heart of this vibrant cycling community by speaking with long-standing members about their experiences. Founded in 1924, the club has transformed from a small group of cyclists into one of London’s largest cycling clubs, now boasting over 500 members. Through their stories, we explore the camaraderie, passion, and shared love for cycling that define the Kingston Wheelers. From race days to leisurely group rides, these voices reflect the enduring spirit of the club.

It is a great community not just a cycling club

“I’ve been a Kingston Wheeler for 17 years now, I was already a steady paced rider, and wanted to join a local racing club to increase my speed. KWCC gave a choice of Sunday morning rides with a very local start, and social events as well. My favourite moments have been finishing the KWCC 600km Wander Wye Audax, enjoying the free pint at the end, and completing the SR series of 200, 300, 400 and 600km in one season. Now I like to volunteer helping out at the finish of the audax rides.

What makes KWCC so special is it caters for all ages and abilities, and encourages member cyclists to try out new activities, from cyclocross to audax, racing to track riding, time trialling, and more. The club also gives back to members by organising subsidised social events, and annual events with food included like the President's Ride.” Peter M

Everyone is welcome, there is space for every ability and the support is incredible

“I joined KWCC four years ago to meet people who love cycling as much as I do, and improve my cycling, I have amazing memories of getting to the top of a tough hill, to be met by the smiling, encouraging faces of my Wheeler friends. It’s a club full of passionate people who put their love of cycling and their club before their need to win or be the best. Everyone is welcome, there is space for every ability and the support is incredible. Being a Wheeler has helped me to be brave and take on challenges that would have been beyond me had I not had the support of other KWCC members.” - Jo R

“I joined KWCC a decade ago because it was local, well-known, and welcoming...and our kit is the mutt's nuts! One of my favourite moments has been completing my Ride London in a borrowed Wheelers jersey and being cheered through our town centre. What a rush! Our club has a long history, super camaraderie, a great mix of abilities, and an abundance of good vibes! Wheeeeeelers!” – Ronn F

With 100 years of history and amazing achievements you feel part of something quite special

“I joined in 1985, my fondest memory was back in 1994 watching the Tour de France cross the Ashdown Forest with a group of Wheelers. The KWCC has been a part of me for a significant majority of my life. Great friends and memories over the years. The Wheelers are all about the people.” – Tim L

“I joined KWCC 18 years ago when I was new to the area. I started to ride a bit more as we were close to Richmond Park and I was commuting to/from work by bike. There are so many great memories, but I think my first trip abroad in 2007 for the Tour of Flanders is right up there as one of my favourites. I love the sense of community. I was made to feel welcome from the first time I met the likes of Del and Keith A in the Willoughby Arms and they told me all about the cobbles of Flanders and Roubaix.” Chris J

I love discovering new types of cycling in the KWCC, Anyone can do anything

“I joined KWCC for more variety of rides / cycling events and to meet new cycling buddies. My favourite moment so far? My first time trial, my first race, my first skills session around Hillingdon, my first Velodrome session, my first volunteering at a race finish line...Impossible to choose. I've experienced so much in only 6 months! I love discovering new types of cycling in the KWCC supportive environment, it's so inspiring. Feels like I've been with the club forever.

I love the people (volunteers) and all the efforts they put in to create such a welcoming and supportive environment, it’s full of fun diversified events, and always inclusive for all, no matter how fast or slow you are. In another club I got told I wasn't fast enough to try racing for example. Well, that doesn't happen at KWCC. Anyone can do anything!” – Anne-Line V

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