Amber Saunders

Name: Amber Saunders

Occupation: Criminal Intelligence Analyst

When I was a kid...I used to pick my bike up and throw it when it didn't go where I wanted it too. Things have changed somewhat, I know what my bike would cost to replace now…

I'd love to meet... Greg Welch & Michellie Jones. They are awe-inspiring. Competing at Ironman distance events and winning Hawaii is just amazing. I'd love to hear them tell their stories and quiz them about their training.

When and why did you become interested in cycling? Initially I didn't start cycling until I was an adult and working and had friends that cycled. Then I found that I enjoyed it so much I would ride to and from work. I also had the opportunity to do bike patrol duties for a period of about 8 months, which was fantastic, I would ride my road bike to work and then scoot around on a mountain bike for about 6 hours before riding home. Now it is my favourite leg of the triathlon.

What do you think you get out of cycling? Although I love what cycling does for my fitness I actually feel I get more out of cycling mentally than physically. I enjoy the time out and freedom that it gives me and the challenges you get from a long hard ride. I find after a couple of hours out on the bike my whole outlook on life is great!

On average how many kilometres do you ride a week and with whom? I like to ride about 200km per week however this is not always possible with work and family commitments. The majority of my cycling I do alone because it's a matter of fitting it in when I can but I like to get out and train with my partner as often as is possible.

Describe you most memorable ride? A group of us went to Bright over cup weekend last year for a hill training get away. We rode up Mount Buffalo. It's a 21-kilometre climb that took the fastest of our bunch just over an hour and the slowest an hour and a half. Your effort is rewarded with the most amazing view from the top and a pretty quick roll back down to recover.

Give us a description of a ride you would rather forget? Some rides are definitely better and more enjoyable than others but I don't think there have been any so bad that I would like to forget them entirely.

What is your favourite post cycle beverage? Orange Juice.

What is your favourite cycle energy food? Chocolate Powerbars whilst riding but pancakes are the preferred post triathlon re-fuel food!

How do you cope with cold winter mornings? Long legs, long sleeves, wind jacket, undershirt, 2 pair of socks, long gloves, headband and a hope that I warm up really quickly.

Is there anything that can be done to improve the on road relationship between cyclists and motorists? I think that both cyclists and motorists need to be conscious of the roads they are using and the needs of others using them, whether they are other motorists, cyclist or even pedestrians. All parties need to obey the laws designed to keep everyone safe. Motorists need to allow space for cyclists when over taking and when on narrow, winding roads cyclists need to be aware of vehicles coming up behind them and move to single file to allow the drivers to pass safely without holding them up too long. It's all a matter of common sense and courtesy really.

What advice can you give those who are thinking of taking up cycling? Get out and give it a go. Doesn't matter how far or fast you go, just enjoy it!

Experience has taught me that... Everyone needs to take time out for themselves - even mums!

Who inspires you the most? Anyone who has gone through tough times and come out the other side retaining a positive outlook and a smile on their face.

What is your life/cycle philosophy? No matter how daunting some things are we all need to challenge ourselves and set goals. The biggest achievements are felt when you succeed at something that takes you out of your comfort zone.

I often daydream about... Not having to work so that I could train for as long as I want each day and compete in events all over the country!

When you are not cycling you are…. Running, swimming, working, parenting…. eating!

When all else fails... Grit your teeth and tackle the problem from different angles until you get the required result.

If you think you know of a candidate for the SheSpoke 'your story' section of this website, drop us an email with your details and those of the woman who you think has the cycling spirit.