Monday Morning Motivation: Beryl Burton
Have you heard of Beryl Burton? Chances are unless you’re a cycling fanatic, you’ve never heard of her.
Beryl Burton was born in Yorkshire in the late 1930s and despite serious health problems that led to her spending over a year in hospital, she went on to become a champion cyclist.
In 1967, Burton set a 12-hour time trial record (277.25 miles). This was further than the men’s record at the time and, despite technological advances, still stands as the women’s record.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHDFCedcQaU?rel=0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kC2FEraR8m4?rel=0
I love the quote in the second video: “If the hills get too hard, just get off and walk – I’m sure the boys will wait for you!”
Beryl’s story shows that competing is not all about having the latest equipment – tenacity, determination, passion and natural ability all play their part.
Who’s your cycling hero?
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Thank you so much for sharing these videos, I had never heard of Beryl Burton before, her story is extremely inspirational. What a champ!
I just find it incredible that her 12 hour record has stood for nearly 50 years despite all of our advances in technology and training.