Beyond Tokenism: Why We Aren't Reserving Tickets for Females at Iceni 360 (And What We Are Doing To Increase Female Participation in Ultra-cycling)

At All Pace Races, we are committed to changing the face of ultra-cycling. With our upcoming event, Iceni 360, taking place on Halloween weekend 2026, we have a clear goal: to see more women on the start line.

​However, if you look at our entry page, you won't find a specific allocation of "female-only" tickets. This is a deliberate choice.

​In the past decade, many organisers have tried to boost female numbers by reserving entries. While well-intentioned, research suggests that these headline targets can often be tokenistic. They address the availability of a spot, but they don't address the fundamental barriers that stop women from wanting to take that spot in the first place.

​We believe in a different approach. One rooted in Self-Determination Theory and the success we’ve already seen at our Norfolk 360 event. Here is why we are focusing on skills, safety, and support rather than quotas.

​1. Building Competence Over Quotas

​Research into ultra-cycling participation shows that one of the significant barriers for women is a perceived lack of competence, specifically regarding mechanical issues and bike maintenance. Simply reserving a ticket doesn't fix the worry of being stranded with a broken chain in the middle of nowhere.

​Instead of quotas, we are committing to workshops and webinars.

​As stated on our event page, in honour of Queen Boudicca’s spirit, we are hosting sessions leading up to the event to help females dial in kit and nutrition strategies to mastering navigation. This decision is directly informed by research showing that up-skilling riders helps dismantle the psychological barriers to entry. By providing these learning opportunities, we aim to replace fear with the confidence to "Ride Like a Queen".

​2. Autonomy: Your Ride, Your Terms

​Another major barrier in traditional ultra-cycling is the lack of control—strict time limits and point-to-point routes that leave riders miles from safety if they want to pull out.

​Iceni 360 uses our unique "Cloverleaf" format: four 90-mile loops centered around a single, warm hub at Breckland High School. This design gives the rider autonomy. The rider can choose to ride 90, 180, 270, or the full 360 miles.

​If a rider needs to stop, they are already at the finish line. This flexibility removes the fear of being stranded and allows riders to define their own success. A key factor in female engagement in outdoor sports.

​3. Safety Net, Not Just a Safety Pin

​We know that the fear of being isolated can be a major deterrent. That’s why we don't just pin a number on you and send you off. We have a "broom wagon" pick-up service available day or night.

​This service works to dismantle the need for advanced mechanical knowledge. Knowing that help is just a phone call away allows you to focus on the ride rather than the "what ifs."

Does It Work?

​We believe this method works. By focusing on creating a supportive environment rather than just hitting a quota, our previous event, Norfolk 360, achieved 36% female participation in 2025. This surpasses the 30% "critical mass" required to create cultural change within a group (If you follow the critical mass theory for change that is).

​We want female riders at the start line of Iceni 360 not because we saved a spot for them, but because they feel prepared, capable, and ready to adventure.

​Ready to find your limits?

Join us on October 31st, 2026.

Enter Iceni 360

ENTER NOW