About Me

Hi, I’m Vicki Flashman (aka Flashers!)

I was born and brought up in Birmingham.   I have always been fond of sport and represented Birmingham in the hockey under 16s.  I left school at 16 and spent a couple of years back packing around the world, mainly on my own, including Africa and a lot of Asia.

I went to sea, as crew on cruise ships.  My last ship was QE2, where I worked for ten years, circling the world seven times and visiting some fascinating places. Between contracts I had the opportunity to travel solo, mainly backpacking and in many places hiring a bike to explore further.  I love cycling.

QE2 had a very good gym which I used extensively, focussing on bodybuilding.

When I left the ship I had the chance to develop my interest in cycling.  I bought a bike which was assembled to my specific needs.  I had an ambition to do the Lands End to John o’ Groats run.  I needed a bike which was set up for this, steel frame, drop handlebars, clip on pedals, good brakes and gears etc.  I also bought myself good quality safety gear including a highly reflective jacket and good lights.