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This February, women from across London came together to cycle through the winter months. They smashed personal milestones and inspired one another as part of Cycle Sisters’ annual cycling Challenge, Smiles and Miles. This year, the challenge was bigger than ever, and the results were truly inspiring!
Campaign Highlights
Total Miles Cycled: Over 29,000 miles were clocked by our incredible participants, proving that the cold and shorter days couldn’t stop the women in our community! Shagufta
Shagufta from Hounslow was crowned the winner for Highest Individual Miles during this year’s challenge, cycling an incredible 993.4 miles! Her story is nothing short of inspiring.
Reflecting on her achievement, Shagufta shared: "To be honest, I thought to myself, ‘No chance, Shagufta - you’re facing some serious cyclists...’ But with the support of Team Hounslow cyclists, there was no stopping me on my cycle."
She went on to express her gratitude: "I am so grateful to Allah Almighty, who gave me the strength to keep my sore bottom going on the saddle to exceed my potential."
Shagufta’s love for cycling started in her childhood, sneaking rides on her grandfather’s bike despite disapproving remarks from her grandmother. “The more she said ‘girls do not cycle,’ the more I cycled,” she said with a smile.
I truly feel ecstatic,” she said, reflecting on her win, adding that she initially thought someone else would take the title.
Inspiring Stories
Noorie (Redbridge):
A complete beginner just a few months ago, Noorie cycled over 100 miles during the challenge, even borrowing a Brompton bike and riding solo to build confidence. Her journey from beginner lessons to completing a 20-mile ride to Stratford Olympic Park is a reminder that it’s never too late to learn something new. Farzanna (Newham):
Farzanna, a single mother who turned 50 this month, set herself a goal of cycling 50 miles—and smashed it - riding over 600 miles. She pushed through every boundary, cycling to new places on her own. “Regardless of what others say, by the mercy of Allah, you can be more than what you thought or were told you could be,” she shared.
Inspiring Ride Leaders
Humira (Redbridge):
A dedicated and selfless Ride Leader, Humira organised rides for cyclists of all abilities, ensuring everyone felt included. Her patience, kindness, and leadership inspired her team to achieve incredible results.
Jasmin (Tower Hamlets):
Jasmin’s calm guidance and encouragement transformed cycling on the road for many women who previously found it daunting. Her generosity and patience helped participants grow their confidence and skills, showing what a difference a supportive leader can make.
Smiles & Miles isn’t just about cycling; it’s about building confidence, breaking barriers, and creating an empowering community for Muslim women. This year, many participants pushed their boundaries, tried new things, and reached milestones they never thought possible.
This year, over 50 women benefited from the generous support of Brompton Bike Hire, ensuring that not having a bike was not a barrier to participation. By providing access to high-quality bikes, Brompton empowered women to take part in the challenge (with style).
A Heartfelt Thank You
We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors and partners who made Smiles & Miles 2025 a success: Brompton Bicycle, A&S Cycles, Cycle Spirit London, LUCA, and Litelok.
We can’t wait for the next Smiles and Miles!
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