Me & My Bike - Melissa Haigh

Introducing Melissa!

Happy Friday Melissa! So, can you tell us a bit about your role at Rapha?

So I'm the Learning and Development Manager here at Rapha, previously I was the GM of our Spitalfields Clubhouse in London.?I work with our Head of Learning and Development and I'm part of our People and Culture team.?

?So what about your bike?

I have three bikes - which feels unnecessary but they all serve a purpose for different riding.?Out of all of them, "Brian" the Brompton is by far my favourite and has changed what cycling means to me.?

?And, how did you get into cycling?

We always had bikes as kids so it was something we did for enjoyment or short journeys from place to place! I moved to London in 2016, at the time I brought my bike along with me. I used to escape to Richmond Park on my days off to get out of the city and cycle around a beautiful park with wild deer. It was a way to be present in my own company and find enjoyment in that. I'd cycle round for hours and hours and hours and always end up with terrible tan lines!

I ended up buying some kit from Rapha Spitalfields, and then discovered the magic of the RCC through the W100 (Women’s 100) ride and was a member of the RCC before working at Rapha. Since then my cycling has changed from long distance road riding, ultra riding and indoor training, to cycling being a method of getting from place to place, across the city on a folding bike! I'll still get out on the road but it has to be in good company, and good weather.

?What would you say is one of your favourite riding memories??

I have so many, but the big highlight has to be riding from Manchester to London for Ambitious about Autism.?I did the ride with some friends from the RCC London community and we joined up with another group.?Over the 350km route we had such a blast. I distinctly remember a can of Redbull being opened and passed down the peloton at one point, just before darkness. It was key to helping us through the final stretch!

?And finally, your favourite piece of Rapha kit??

The Brevet Insulated Jacket has been one of my favourites for years. Combining a little bit of stretch, with plenty of reflectivity and insulated warmth. Plus the pockets are such a good size and it has a multiway zip!! I think I have three!

Amazing! Who else is tempted to buy a folding bike and go for a spin?