Ride #4: Kirsten Boerrigter

Venturing out for a ride with a new cycling friend is always a thrilling experience, even if it means heading east of the country. I met up with Kirsten Boerrigter at the Scott Experience Center – Herman Beleef Fietsen in Nijverdal for a leisurely ride. Despite encountering a downpour en route, the weather report promised an upturn, so we kept our hopes up. The Scott Experience Center is a sight to behold, showcasing only the finest Scott bikes, as well as an array of bike clothing and accessories. The ride started off well enough with sunshine and dry roads, but before long, a blanket of dark gray clouds moved in. As luck would have it, we ran into some heavy showers that drenched us to the bone. We sought refuge in a tunnel until the weather cleared up, grateful for the chance to dry off a bit while still on our bikes. Along the way, we discussed cycling and learned more about Kirsten’s work with Fietsvrouwen.cc, which was truly impressive for someone who has been cycling for only 6 years. Despite the rain, we enjoyed a lovely ride in picturesque surroundings.

Who are you?

I’m Kirsten Boerrigter, and I’m 28 years old. I’m the lead rider of the platform Fietsvrouwen.cc. When I was 22 years old, I started cycling and it didn’t take long for me to get hooked. Before that, I used to work in equestrian sports, which was my passion and life. But now, 99% of that passion has transferred to cycling, and I couldn’t be happier to have made it my work. With Fietsvrouwen, my team and I inspire, motivate, and connect cycling women all across the Netherlands. We do this by creating content and organizing events to help women have more fun and experience cycling. Personally, I love gadgets and beautiful cycling gear, but ultimately, it’s just about having a great day on the bike, whether alone or with others, and pushing my limits with a big smile on my face.

Cycling is my outlet. It helps me clear the chaos in my head and initiates creative processes. It challenges me both mentally and physically. Many of my girlfriends are also into cycling, making it a social activity for me. I love cycling together, but cycling alone is therapeutic for me for the reasons mentioned above. In addition, cycling is not just my passion, but it’s also my job. Besides my own company, Fietsvrouwen, I also work part-time for Schwalbe Benelux.

I started cycling when I was a student in Groningen where I studied Sport Science. I like cycling the most, but I can also enjoy a nice gravel ride, and lately, I’ve been secretly enjoying mountain biking more and more.

Why do you cycle?

Cycling is my outlet. I can be quite scattered and busy at times – like the bookcase is upside down. But when I’m on my bike, everything falls into place, and I find clarity amidst the chaos. Cycling is my way of decluttering my mind, igniting my creativity, and challenging myself both physically and mentally. It’s also a social activity for me, as many of my girlfriends are fellow cycling enthusiasts. I cherish our rides together, but I also value the therapeutic aspect of cycling alone, which helps me clear my head and recenter my thoughts. And as luck would have it, cycling is not only my passion but also my profession. I’m the founder of my own company, Fietsvrouwen, and I also work part-time for Schwalbe Benelux.

Pass on the baton. With whom should I bike the next ride with and why?

Maikel Govaarts! Maikel is the guy I organize a lot of my cycling clinics with. He’s an experienced cyclist, having won multiple Dutch championships, and he’s also a gym teacher. Maikel has a knack for getting top-level riders ready for the Olympics, as well as boosting the confidence of Bicycle Women on their bikes. He’s not just a great coach, but also a really nice guy to work with.