About the 4Five+ Athlete Collective
The 4Five+ Athlete Collective Incorporated is a West Australian-based not-for-profit association that focuses on education & research, positive role-modelling and support networks to inspire and support female athletes through mid life and beyond to maintain an active and competitive life, providing benefits for physical and mental health.
We want to positively challenge what you can do and what you THINK you can do. We aim to close the gap that exists in current science and the expectations of society around our demographic.
Established in March 2021, the association is run by volunteers. In the beginning our focus will be on cycling, but we realise the research and training adaptations apply beyond this sport, and look forward to engaging with other sports as we grow.
We are funded by our membership base and are open to engaging with corporate members, sponsors, research institutions, government programs and allied health and fitness professionals to provide support to our membership. We seek to provide a value-add for our demographic, working with existing clubs and training professionals for the benefit of all.
Where the seed was sown…
Deb and Vanessa first joined forces at the ATTA Hennessey 30km double-up TT in January 2021. With a combined age of 114 years, they averaged 37.2 kph, dodged a male duo "off" on a hotdog corner in front of them, and finished fourth in their Category (Female Duo).
Beginning as a desire to have matching kit, what soon developed was the realisation that the need to stay Fit and Fast, whilst having Fun and being supported was a real need for female athletes through midlife and beyond.
And so, the 4FIVE+ Athlete Collective began...
photo: Colinwhitephotography.com.au
How we’re growing
The 4Five+ AC membership has grown to include women of all ages, and men too!
We are active in the WA cycling community. We engage with stakeholders to promote women’s participation, and hold our own female-focused events such as the Twilight Criterium Series (in its 4th edition in 2024) and Tiger Tracks Gravel.
In 2024 4Five+ established a Southwest Chapter to support regional women in their pursuit of an active lifestyle.
We also support members to take up leadership roles, and have established a grant to support women undertaking further training to fulfil these roles.
Pic: Neil McLagan
The Amateur Hour: Deb Kempe - Thrive with 4Five
Listen to the story of our vision and the journey of our first 18 months, as told by Deb Kempe to The Amateur Hour
Connected Women: Be Over 50 | Episode 2 - Deb Kempe
Meet Deb Kempe, Chairperson of 4Five+ Athlete Collective, Triathlete turned Time Trialist, Gravel biker, Gifted Educator, Triathlon Coach, filleted to Triathlon Australia, Cycling Australia, South Perth CC, ATTA, WCMCC and her go to coffee is a 3/4 Long Mac.