Getting Back on the Bike is a compelling and deeply inspiring South African memoir of resilience, triumph and personal transformation as it weaves together sport, personal healing, and the pursuit of meaning. Former cycling champion Cathy Carstens – physiotherapist, consciousness coach, and legendary South African cyclist – chronicles her rise in a male-dominated sport, her five consecutive victories in the Cape Town Cycle Tour (formerly the Argus), and her unexpected return to elite racing in her forties, where she went on to win two UCI Masters Road World Championships.

Told with honesty, humour, and spiritual depth, Cathy’s story moves from early struggles and devastating setbacks to remarkable comebacks and rediscovered joy. Whether navigating 700-kilometre stage races, mastering the art of resilience, or finding clarity in life’s hardest moments, her journey reminds readers that the greatest victories often follow our most painful falls.

This book is a powerful reminder that the race of life is won not by perfection, but by the courage to begin again. Blending cycling history, lived wisdom, and emotive storytelling, this book offers both an inspiring sports narrative and a guide to living with courage, purpose, and authenticity.