Women of Oz | Spotlight | Ozark Cycling Adventures | Cycling Information in Arkansas

Women of Oz | Spotlight

We have been hearing about the Women of OZ movement a lot this year. So we decided to check in with Chairwoman Allyson de la Houssaye to find out more. Check it!

OCA: What is Women of Oz or WOZ?
WOZ: Women of Oz is a inclusive women’s mountain bike group aimed to empower women to embark on our trails with confidence, while building leaders, and creating a fellowship among women mountain bikers. Our mission is to get women on bikes by breaking down barriers (education, equipment, intimidation.) Our slogan; Let’s ride together!

Photo by Patty of Patty V Photography

OCA: How did WOZ get started?
WOZ: With the growing cycling scene here in NWA there was an increase of pockets of women riding MTB and we saw a need to connect them. In January of 2019 about 40 local women leaders in cycling gathered for a meeting and Women of Oz was born. Since then we have created a board of 9 that is supported by 40 more women who act as the steering committee members and ride leaders. It is truly a community group.

OCA: What events do you have coming up?
WOZ: Our biggest ride is our Flagship ride the first Saturday of every month, 2pm at the DAC in Bentonville. We offer a free fundamental skills clinic as well as have guided rides for each skill level going out at the same time. Post ride we gather for a social as an opportunity to engage with each other and to support a local business. We also have the “Let’s Explore” program, 3rd Sunday of every month we discover new parks and trails within the region and encourage families to join us. Additionally we have educational and social gatherings several times a month.

OCA: How does someone join?
WOZ: Simple, just show up! If you’d like to do the fundamentals clinic you will need to sign up through the eventbright, it is free but we cap it at 25 and it almost always sells out.

OCA: How can someone find out more about WOZ?
WOZ: You can find us on Facebook and Instagram as Women of Oz NWA. Additionally we list all the flagship rides on EventBright.com

Photo by Patty of Patty V Photography

OCA: What is your current favorite trail system in the Land of Oz?
WOZ: Ohhh that’s a tough one. It’s so hard to pick especially with the growing trail system. But I feel like at this moment I am loving the addition on All American. It’s a trip the whole way through to enjoy while sharpening your skills; rock berms, features, and a beautiful flowy track that will have you smiling ear to ear to the end. What’s not to love?

OCA: Thanks for the interview! So many cool things are happening in Northwest Arkansas. Remember folks the WOZ Flagship rides are the 1st Saturday every month starting at 2pm during the winter season and during summer months June-September the start time is 10am. Start location is the Downtown Activity Center in Bentonville. Click here for more information.