The 4Five+ Athlete Collective (4F) is all about inspiring women to ride bikes, challenge themselves (in often competitive environments) and learn new skills. In four years they’ve done plenty of that.

The emphasis is on older women as the ‘4Five’ moniker suggests, and Collective chairperson Vanessa Johnson told us a key focus was, “challenging age and gender stereotypes” while boosting physical and mental health.

“The fact is cycling remains male-dominated,” Johnson said. “80% of cycling club members are men and sports like mountain biking can be very blokey. We want women to feel comfortable and confident to ride bikes and achieve their best.”

4Five+ focuses include positive role-modelling, education, research and events.

That manifests as skills sessions, social rides, seminars, leadership grants, rider support, and racing in Perth and the new Southwest chapter based out of Nannup.

Creating safe event spaces

The Collective organises marquee events including the female-only Twilight Criterium Series in November (at the Midvale velodrome in Perth), and female-oriented Tiger Tracks Gravel in April near Nannup.

“Tiger Tracks features a separate start time for female racers, shines the spotlight on women’s racing, and helps create a safe space for women new to gravel racing,” Johnson said of the event that is almost exclusively organised and run by women.

Pro riders like Cassia Boglio were on the line at this year’s well-supported event.

Pressing play on Menopause

The Collective offers specific support for pre-menopausal or menopausal women and the hormonal and mood changes that can follow.

“There’s a 10-year period of hormonal fluctuation. Many women withdraw from riskier activities,” she said. “We take a softer approach so it’s not about shredding yourself, it’s more about getting into nature and enjoying yourself.”

“Above all, 4F wants to provide safe spaces for women to participate and feel supported, where they are comfortable to talk all things health and fitness, especially as they navigate the many challenges that can come their way during perimenopause and menopause.”

Find out more about the Collective here.