Trailblazer SPOTLIGHT: Sarah Harrington
Name: Sarah Harrington
Pronouns: She/Her
Profession: Teacher
Organization Name: Norfolk Cycle Sisters & Solstice Hybrid Academy
Instagram: @norfolk_cycle_sisters
Organization Website: www.solsticehybridacademy.org
Years lived in Norfolk: 15
Three words to describe me: Passionate, Caring, Loud
Tell us about yourself.
I moved to Norfolk to pursue an education in Art at Old Dominion University. I had a significant change in my life and that brought me to cycling. I have a passion for art, adventure, and learning. I’ve been teaching for 10 years. I’m a Mom, I’m an Artist, I’m a cyclist, and I’m a friend.
What inspired you to start Norfolk Cycle Sisters?
I started NCS because I wanted a safe place to be myself as a learning cyclist and woman. We have a great community of cyclists but it was really important to me to have a group of women that I could ride and connect with. NCS is a place where all women can come together, ride, build confidence, and feel a sense of belonging.
How did you get connected to the ERT and the Foundation?
We ride the ERT more than twice a month on our weekly rides and special event rides. We are so grateful to have the ERT to ride on, especially for our lady cyclists who are apprehensive about street riding. I connected to the ERT because I wanted to be more involved in the community-building projects they organize.
Given your background, what benefits do you feel the trail has for Norfolk?
ERT is definitely the safest way to commute if you’re traveling from North Hampton Blvd to Downtown Norfolk. The ERT is connected to so many businesses and parks. It’s a great place for me to ride with my cycle sisters, family, and students.
What does being a part of the cycling community mean to you?
Being part of the cycling community means being there for other humans that want to cycle, and providing them the camaraderie and support they may need to pursue their interest in cycling. Cycling is good for our community, it’s good for our environment, and it’s good for our health.
If you met someone who just moved to Norfolk, what would you say to get them interested in the trail?
“Do you have a bike? You could borrow one of mine and come ride with me.”
What is your favorite place on the trail?
Plum Point Park- for the oyster conservation, art, and playground. It has been a favorite spot for years to ride and stop for a picnic.
Favorite Trailgrazing spot? (i.e. best local food spot steps from the trail)
I love Chelsea the most, which is close to Plum Point Park, for food and drinks. They have some solid breweries, restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops.
