Camilla De Santiago/Ben Causer - Vice Chair
Camilla De Santiago
Member of VCC since 2025
My cycling story...
I got into cycling after a foot surgery, when I needed a “gentle to the joints – sport”. Having been a keen spin class attendee for many years, I knew I would love it outdoors too. I now cycle frequently with passion, where all my holidays have turned into training camps. I particularly enjoy the climbs in Switzerland and the warmth in Spain.
About my role...
I am joint Vice Chair with Ben. Our job is to support the Chair and the committee.
More about me...
I’m originally from Sweden and have lived in the UK for over 20 years. When I don’t cycle, I spend time with my two children and our rascal Bengal cat Nala.
My day job is in the Commercial Real Estate sector, in an operational role where I support our Building Consultancy Team with finance and compliance.
Ben Causer
Member of VCC since 2023
My cycling story...
Third generation cyclist as both Grandad and Father and indeed both Uncle’s rode for a cycling club for many years. In fact, my uncle aged 82 still is a member of the Doncaster Wheelers and rides 100k on the weekly Sunday club runs. Don’t ever remember not having a bike. BMX freestyler when I was a kid with scars to prove it.
However, in my teens I entered the darker side and was passed down my first proper (road) bike (albeit oversized) Carlton Columbia with campag super record groupset, Reynolds 753 tubing and toe straps. I then joined my dad’s cycling club aged 14.
Regularly commute to London Bridge from my home in St Albans whilst trying to avoid white vans. Slowly acquiring the required number of bikes, n+1, despite there being a one in one out rule at home.
About my role...
I have a joint role with Camilla to support the chair and committee.
More about me...
Was born and raised in Yorkshire but moved to London aged 16. New to St Albans and indeed VCC having lived in Piccotts End for over 30 years.
I play (badly) tennis with my Partner Maielle several times a week. I am trying to introduce a house rule, ‘for every racket we have in the house I believe an equal number of bikes is appropriate’!
Day to day I’m a chartered Quantity Surveyor in construction. I enjoy many water sports and moved to big boy’s toys in 2022 following gaining Day skipper qualifications. I regularly crew with anyone that will have me. Longest passage was 6 days on a 42 foot sailing boat across the north Atlantic from Vigo, Spain into UK in 2024, whilst avoiding orcas!
In 5 years (when our daughter goes to Uni) Maielle and I plan to live in warmer climates where we can balance all sporting interests we possess.
