Steezy X NLTCBMBC Lightning Alleycat

The Lightning Alleycat - Steezy X NLTCBMBC

The pioneers of Thundercrit and Thundercross, the North London Thundercats Black Metal Bicycle Club (to use their full name) pioneered a new race categorisation system for 2021. This system opened up traditional and exclusive race categories to everyone by removing gender from categories and focussing on performance level and personal comfort.

This allowed Steezy and the Thundercats to create a new kind of Alleycat: The Lightning Alleycat. This alleycat was created to allow women/NB/transmasc riders to race an alleycat in a more supportive and beginner-friendly environment. Typically alleycats are full of mystery and difficult to bust into for those who aren’t in the know, we tried to demystify and create a space for those who’ve been too intimidated before to attend.

The race began at St. Pauls, covering 6 checkpoints throughout London in a roughly 25km loop through the heart of the city. With at least 2 volunteers at each checkpoint bringing good vibes, this was a Steezy party throughout the capital.

Most riders managed to complete the route in under an hour and a half, with Alana bagging first in a whopping 1 hour 5 minutes. The pace was high but with all riders finishing at St. Pauls the event was attainable for all.

Congratulations to Alana for first, Alice for second and Ilma third. With Pat bagging the furthest travel from Southampton and Jo coming in as our ever favourite lanterne rouge.

With riders coming from up and down the country to attend the Lightning Alleycat, we’re hoping to keep the momentum going. Our new Road-Fixed lead, Hayley, is hoping to create a series of Alleycats throughout the year. If you’re keen to get involved get in touch!

Thank you to all the incredible volunteers who made this incredible race possible!

A special thank you needs to be made to Honor Elliott and Theo Clarkes who ragged around central London on a cargo bike, Honor snapping shots on the front and Theo chasing riders on the back.
It is really important to us to be able to share and spread our Steezy message and without photographers who give up their time and provide their expertise, this wouldn’t be possible.