Monday Morning Motivation: Beryl Burton

Mid shot of Beryl Burton

Have you heard of Beryl Burton? Chances are unless you’re a cycling fanatic, you’ve never heard of her.

beryl-burton-side
© Classic Time Trial Photographs

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.

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?

2 Responses

  1. Thank you so much for sharing these videos, I had never heard of Beryl Burton before, her story is extremely inspirational. What a champ!

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