OC Women’s Month Profile – Stephanie Sutton

Steph Sutton is a sport administrator and a dedicated volunteer/coach with passion for promoting living a healthy life via the sport of cycling. Growing up in Copetown, ON she was grateful to grow up right beside Hamilton Conservation Authority Rail trail (Hamilton to Brantford) and often used cycling as training for her other sports- hockey, ringette, and softball. But riding her bike is truly something that Steph continues to enjoy to be active for life. It checks off all the boxes off: being outside in nature, fitness, and fun!

How long have you been part of the cycling community?

Unofficially- from the young age of 2 and officially 4 years.

What drew you to youth programming?

I was very fortunate to have many opportunities to play sports and to try many different sports as a kid. I think it is so important to be able to provide the same opportunity for the youth of tomorrow. The benefit of cycling is endless and it important that there is an chance to help foster that growth and development in any way possible.

What’s your favorite part about working with youth?

I will be forever young working with youth. I love how young riders are sponges! We work on some skills and then go for a ride on the trail- BAM! They get it immediately- it is such a rush to see the instant feedback and self-realization on their faces – usually followed by a high five.

What advice would you give to other women about getting involved in coaching or being an instructor?

If you love to ride your bike- that’s all you need! There is a place for you in the great sport of cycling- Parent Rider, Coach, Hop ON Instructor, Volunteer.  The possibilities are endless. The community of cycling is so, so, supportive, there are Clinics you can attend to build up your confidence, people that will always go on a ride with you- no matter your talent level, hone your skills and resources to draw from. Be brave and be bold- you got this!

You were part of the development of a new youth cycling club in Hamilton – is there anything you would like to share on that journey?

With a group of dedicated and passionate cycling enthusiasts, a new non-profit cycling club in February 2023 was established to fill a void of a youth cycling group in Hamilton in the greater area. It has been an incredible ride- there have been many accomplishments in a very short amount of time. We were so driven and focused to create a safe, friendly welcoming place to ride regardless of rider’s skills. I am proud to be a founding member of Golden Horseshoe Cycling Hub and it cannot wait to see what we are able to bring across the finish line. Learn, Ride, Love.

What’s your favourite sport outside of cycling?

If I have to pick just one, I would say softball :).