Celebrating LGBT+ History Month: Interview with David Sharpe, Co-founder of Out Velo

February is LGBT+ History Month, a time to celebrate the progress made by LGBTQ+ individuals and communities. As this year’s theme is Activism and Social Change, we want to shine a spotlight on organisations that have created positive and lasting change within the cycling world.

One such organisation is Out Velo, a national LGBTQ+ led cycling club that has created a supportive space for LGBTQ+ individuals who have a passion for cycling through the wilder spaces of Britain and Europe.

We caught up with Out Velo Co-founder, David Sharpe, to find out more about the organisation. In the interview below, David shares insights into Out Velo’s creation and  growth, as well as valuable advice for LGBTQ+ individuals looking to get involved in cycling.

How was Out Velo formed?

We were founded in 2022 by a group of ride leaders from various LGBTQ+ sports clubs, including OutdoorLads, Frontrunners and Cycle Out. We wanted to create a national club that could connect with LGBTQ+ cyclists across the country, and bring them together for special and weekend events in our wild spaces and National Parks, as we had been doing inside other clubs for 10 years. We also wanted to be more visible, and we wanted to create a support network that could facilitate the growth of local LGBTQ+ clubs like LDN Riders and Glasgow Inclusive Cycling Club right across the UK.

How has Out Velo grown over time?

Having our own identity and partnering with others has really helped us grow, now we have over 300 members and over 200 different people rode with us in 2024. We have worked with Rapha to run their Manchester Pride Ride, and have collaborated with clubs across the UK. We hope to see the national network of LGBTQ+ clubs grow, supporting that while making connections between places and people.

What advice do you have for young LGBTQ+ people who want to start cycling?

Just get started! We all were a bit daunted to begin with, but it’s such a freeing sport that allows you to explore new places, and get quite fit in the process, gradually! Making new friends is also so easy through cycling – I have friends I stay with all over the UK!

What advice do you have for LGBTQ+ parents who are looking to join a cycle group?

Local clubs will be supportive – we have had a great reception wherever we have been in the UK and I’d not be daunted by getting involved with the cycling community.

Are there any members of your team you would like to mention?

A shout-out to three key women, Smudge (welfare and inclusion officer) Louise and Catherine, who are making great progress on getting greater diversity into the sport both with us and elsewhere.

Do you have any upcoming events that you would like to share with us?

We are riding all over the UK in amazing places, from the Yorkshire Dales to the Beacon Beacons. Everyone is welcome to come for one of our weekends (we have many members that don’t identify as LGBTQ+) so if you are a cyclist keen to explore the UK more and meet some great people, do join us!

To find out more and get involved in an event, visit Out Velo’s website.

Learning about Out Velo is a powerful reminder of how cycling can unite people and build supportive communities. As we celebrate LGBT+ History Month, we honour groups like Out Velo that champion inclusivity and the joy of cycling for all.