Audrey Cordon-Ragot: “Too Many Women Put Up Barriers to Cycling,” Laments French Cyclist After Mont Ventoux Ascent
Audrey Cordon-Ragot, a prominent French professional cyclist, has voiced her regret that an excessive number of women place mental and practical barriers in their own way when it comes to embracing the sport of cycling. Her candid remarks came following her recent challenging ascent of the iconic Mont Ventoux, a feat that underscores her dedication and passion for the discipline.
The article, published by France Info on July 22, 2025, at 2:08 PM, highlights Cordon-Ragot’s observation that societal expectations, self-doubt, or perhaps a lack of accessible information might be deterring women from fully engaging with cycling, whether for leisure, fitness, or competitive purposes. She suggests that this self-imposed limitation is a significant hurdle that needs to be addressed to encourage greater female participation in cycling.
Cordon-Ragot, a seasoned competitor known for her strength and resilience, shared her thoughts in the context of her own demanding physical achievement. Conquering the legendary Mont Ventoux, often referred to as the “Giant of Provence,” is a testament to her impressive cycling prowess. This climb, characterized by its steep gradients and often harsh weather conditions, demands not only physical endurance but also significant mental fortitude. It is precisely this kind of challenging but ultimately rewarding experience that Cordon-Ragot believes more women should be empowered to pursue.
While the article doesn’t delve into the specific nature of the barriers Cordon-Ragot perceives, it is reasonable to infer that they could encompass a range of factors. These might include perceptions of cycling as a predominantly male sport, concerns about safety on the road, the perceived cost of equipment, a lack of confidence in their own abilities, or simply not knowing where to start. The sentiment expressed by Cordon-Ragot suggests a desire to dismantle these obstacles and foster a more inclusive and encouraging environment for women in cycling.
Her message serves as a powerful call to action, implicitly urging women to reconsider any hesitations they may have and to explore the many benefits that cycling can offer. The sport provides not only excellent physical and mental health advantages but also opportunities for exploration, community, and personal achievement.
Audrey Cordon-Ragot’s perspective, stemming from her own experiences at the highest level of the sport, offers valuable insight into the current landscape of women’s cycling. Her regret signifies a hope for a future where more women feel empowered and equipped to embrace the joys and challenges of cycling, without allowing self-imposed barriers to limit their potential.
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France Info published ‘”Trop de femmes se mettent des barrières vis-à-vis de la pratique du cyclisme”, regrette Audrey Cordon-Ragot, qui a gravi le mont Ventoux’ at 2025-07-22 14:08. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.