Beryl Burton aka BB
The world’s greatest cyclist…..
Beryl Burton: The Unsung Hero of British Cycling
When we think of the greatest athletes in history, names like Usain Bolt or Serena Williams often come to mind. But in the world of cycling, there’s one name that deserves a place in the conversation, though many outside the sport might not be familiar with her: Beryl Burton. A trailblazer in British cycling, Beryl’s achievements are not only astounding but also a testament to perseverance, hard work, and sheer determination. Her story is one that every sports enthusiast should know, and yet it remains largely underappreciated outside cycling circles.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Beryl Burton was born in Leeds, England, in 1937, and her childhood was marked by adversity. At the age of 11, she fell seriously ill with rheumatic fever and spent months recovering. Doctors advised her to avoid strenuous activity—a warning Beryl would later defy with a vengeance.
It wasn’t until her late teens that Burton discovered her love for cycling. After marrying her husband Charlie, who was also a cyclist, Beryl joined the Morley Cycling Club in the 1950s. Her talent became evident almost immediately, and she quickly began to dominate the local and national cycling scenes.
A Record-Breaking Career
Beryl Burton’s list of achievements is nothing short of staggering. Over her career, she won more than 90 domestic championships and set numerous records that stood for decades. Perhaps her most famous feat came in 1967 when she set a 12-hour time trial record by cycling 277.25 miles. What made this particularly remarkable was that her record not only shattered the women’s distance but also surpassed the men’s record. For two years, no male cyclist could beat her 12-hour ride—a record that stood until 1969. It’s hard to imagine any modern athlete, male or female, achieving such a feat.
But Burton’s dominance wasn’t just limited to time trials. She won seven world titles, including two in road racing and five in individual pursuit, a track cycling event. From 1959 to 1983, she was the British Best All-Rounder for 25 consecutive years, an unrivaled streak in the sport. Her ability to sustain top-tier performance over such a long period is a testament to her incredible physical and mental fortitude.
Overcoming Barriers
What makes Beryl Burton’s accomplishments even more remarkable is that she achieved all this while maintaining a life outside of professional sport. Unlike many of today’s athletes, Burton was never a full-time cyclist. She balanced her cycling career with a job as a rhubarb picker and later worked in a chemical factory. She was also a devoted wife and mother, making her successes even more inspiring. The lack of sponsorship opportunities for women in sport during her era meant that Burton had to fund much of her own training and travel, yet she never let these obstacles slow her down.
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
Beryl Burton’s story is one of grit, talent, and defying expectations. Despite her incredible achievements, she never sought the limelight and remained humble throughout her career. Her records and contributions to British cycling speak for themselves, yet she never achieved the fame that many of her male counterparts enjoyed.
In a world where sports celebrities often dominate headlines, Burton stands as a reminder that greatness isn’t always accompanied by widespread recognition. For those who know her story, she is more than just a champion cyclist—she’s a role model for persistence and passion.
Though Beryl Burton passed away in 1996, her legacy continues to inspire cyclists and athletes around the world. She may not be as widely known as some sporting legends, but for those in the know, Beryl will always be one of the greatest.
Beryl by Maxine Peake at Hebden Bridge Little Theatre 7th-12th Oct 2024 (almost sold out).