Lead Guide
I was lucky enough to call the French Alps home for 18 years playing on two planks in the winter and two wheels in the summer. Brought up to never say no to an adventure, I believe that no adventure is too small or too big. Whether you’re taking on your first alpine col or attempting one of the raids I’ll be there to support you along the way. The pandemic led me into an adventure of a more cerebral kind and I’m studying for a Masters in psychotherapy so if the gummy bears don’t work, maybe a therapy session at the back of the van will! I’ve recently returned to my roots in Sussex and have been exploring the South Downs on my gravel bike. It brings a smile to my face every time, but I have yet to find any actual gravel in the southeast!
What our cyclists say about Mary…
Mary was fantastic. The care she has for the well-being of the cyclists just radiates from her. She was obviously very tuned in to the various states of mind of our group as each rider reached the col passes, which was great to see and much appreciated. Mary was unfailingly helpful, cheerful, supportive and effective. The way Mary ran the trip was perfect. I couldn’t have wished for a better tour guide. She and Pedro complemented each other very well and worked brilliantly as a team. Thanks a lot, Mary! E Huguet Classic Cols of the Dolomites 2018
Great attitude, very supportive and encouraging! A Lem and J Sinnott. Classic Cols of the Dolomites 2018
Great energy, added a real sense of fun to the week. P Gough. Alpine Classic road cycling holiday 2018
Always had a smile and had a knack of being there on the road exactly when we needed her. Excellent local knowledge. C Barker. Alpine Classic Cols 2018
Friendly; enthusiastic; very helpful and pleasant; brilliant management with meals and accommodation. B Peacock. Alpine Classic Cols 2018
Professional & friendly. always keen to help – very knowledgeable. Lovely person. P Margetts. Raid Pyrenean 100hr road cycling challenge 2019
Fantastic support. Very hard working, always available to answer endless questions and always smiling and positive to get you through the tough times and the spots of bad weather. An excellent guide! S Tobin. Raid Pyrenean cycling holiday 2019
Mary was exceptional her desire to make sure everyone was safe and had a great time was second to none, also she was very approachable. S Parfitt. Ventoux and the Verdon Gorge 2019
Loved how Mary was upbeat and had a great attitude. Appreciated her interactions with hotel/restaurant staff during dinners to ensure everyone was happy with food and beverages. J Anglim. Pyrenean Classic Cols 2019
Thank heavens for Mary! Constant positive and supportive presence. FABULOUS GUIDE. K Bird. Alpine Classic Cols 2019
Mary was really enthusiastic and upbeat all the time. The van support was excellent throughout and whenever you were feeling like you needed some water etc the van just seemed to appear as though they could read your mind! I left my water bottle in the van at one stop and, as I don’t like to stop on an ascent Mary even handed me my bottle as I passed the refreshment stop … over and above the job spec 😉 R. Bligh-Smith Road cycling in the Alps 2019
