Nadjie Butler

By Victoria Heywood

Nadjie Butler

Nadjie Butler is part of Cycling UK's 100 Women in Cycling 2018 list for turning a cancer diagnosis into an incredible force for good.

Nadjie started cycling late in 2014, and in January 2015 signed up to Women V Cancer Ride the Night 100km, raising money for research into breast, ovarian and cervical cancers. The following month, she was herself diagnosed with a very aggressive form of breast cancer. Nevertheless, Nadjie completed Ride the Night in May, just eight weeks after a mastectomy and while in the throes of chemotherapy.

In the last four years, Nadjie has cycled 9,200 miles and raised a total of £19,795 for Women V Cancer, Breast Cancer Care, Macmillan, The Stroke Association and Alzheimer’s Society. In 2015 she also qualified as a British Cycling Level 1 and Level 2 Ride Leader and has now led 140 women-only rides. This April she qualified as a British Cycling Level 2 Coach, has already cycled 1500 miles and is planning to take on the Macmillan Night Ride, Wiggle French Revolution, Ride London, Velo South, North Coast 500 and Women V Cancer Cycle India. Recently, Nadjie was a volunteer sweeper for the 65-mile route for Ride for Helen for the second year.

Cancer has spurred me on to be the best cyclist I can be.

- Nadjie Butler

Nadjie is the committee representative for women at her local cycling club, Redbridge, promoting women and women’s issues, and is currently leading a project as a trustee for the Beacon Multi Academy Trust, to provide free bikes across the two sixth form campuses.

Nadjie says, “Cancer has spurred me on to be the best cyclist I can be. I have found my perfect combination in cycling and fundraising, and have extended this to ride leading and coaching. I am very excited about the future and looking forward to meeting the other list nominees in June!”