I come from a cycling background. I happened to be good at it; the opportunities came my way. It wasn't something I necessarily searched to be involved in; it wasn't a dream. I just had an opportunity which you couldn't refuse. Victoria Pendleton backgroundcycledream share on social
As you get older, you get more accepting - although, if you asked me whose body I would want, I would say Jess Ennis's at the Olympics. Victoria Pendleton acceptaskbody Change image and share on social
I never really felt I had the same respect as my male team-mates. My opinion wasn't worth as much. I used to sit quietly in meetings and not say anything, as I knew my opinions would be disregarded. And that's after I had become Olympic champion and multiple world champion. Victoria Pendleton championdisregardfelt share on social
Apparently, I have such a serious race face, even when I'm doing a bit of work, at first everybody wasn't sure if I was enjoying it or not. But it's absolutely exhilarating. It feels like you're one with your horse and you're flying. Victoria Pendleton absolutelyapparentlybite share on social
As you ride in a steeplechase, and you're on the horse, going quite fast, you think, 'That's quite a big fence...' But trust the horse, and don't give him any reason to doubt you. Victoria Pendleton bigdoubtfast Change image and share on social
One of the first coaches I worked with on the national team told me that I was too skinny, too puny, and had no natural acceleration. He said I'd be better off looking for another facet of sport to follow. That was a really, really bad moment. For a long time, I felt as if my dad was the only one who had faith in me. Victoria Pendleton accelerationbadcoach share on social