While holidaying in Bintan a year ago, human resource director Janet Koh wanted to explore the island on a bicycle. But her attempt to cycle went badly and hotel staff had to assist her.
"I couldn't even mount properly. The poor hotel guys saw me struggling and tried to teach me. I tried a couple of times but I just couldn't balance," said Koh, adding that her fear of falling also deterred her from picking up the skill.
But the 46-year-old, an avid runner who competes in marathons, is now more than competent on a two-wheeler and is even training for her first triathlon in April.
Her new skill was thanks to her participation in last year's inaugural Project Training Wheels, OCBC Cycle's learn-to-ride programme which gives free lessons to beginners.
Nominations for this year's initiative closed on Wednesday and 15 participants have been selected for the three lessons between March and April. They will also be given complimentary slots in the 23km The Straits Times Ride category.
Praising the professionalism of the trainers, Koh added: "I picked up useful skills that I don't think I would learn from friends if they taught me how to cycle."
Some of them include manoeuvring sharp turns, changing gears when tackling slopes and learning how to avoid an open car door.
Koh initially struggled with "a lot of self doubt" when she found out she was the oldest participant. But her worries were unfounded and she was made to feel at ease.
"When you can't really cycle and are around people who can't cycle too and are learning with you, it is a less intimidating environment."
She competed in the ST Ride category last November and has signed up for the same event at this year's May 5-6 event. She hopes to better her timing.
• Online registration for OCBC Cycle is now open, with early bird discounts up to $14 until Feb 28. For more information, visit www.ocbccycle.com
