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Anna Kiesenhofer is an Austrian professional cyclist and mathematician. She made history by winning the gold medal in the women’s individual road race at the 2020 Summer Olympics, becoming the first Austrian to win a gold medal at the Summer Olympics since 2004 and the first Austrian to win a cycling Olympic gold medal since 1896. Alongside her athletic career, Kiesenhofer is also a postdoctoral fellow in mathematics at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne.
Hazel Kolb, the “Motorcyclin’ Grandma,” made a name for herself as a touring ambassador for motorcycling. Her iconic 1979 ride around the United States on a Harley-Davidson Electra Glide captured the nation’s attention. Kolb’s dedication to promoting motorcycling and breaking down stereotypes helped pave the way for a new era of acceptance and fashionability among aging Baby Boomers. Her powerful journey from a difficult childhood to an influential figure in the motorcycling world continues to inspire.
Marianne Vos is a Dutch multi-discipline cyclist, known for her exceptional achievements in road racing, cyclo-cross, and track racing. Born on May 13, 1987, in ‘s-Hertogenbosch, North Brabant, Vos has become one of the most successful and influential female cyclists in history.
Beryl Burton, OBE (12 May 1937 – 5 May 1996) was an English racing cyclist who dominated women’s cycle racing in the UK, winning more than 90 domestic championships and seven world titles, and setting numerous national records. She set a women’s record for the 12-hour time-trial which exceeded the men’s record for two years. Burton’s achievements in cycling were groundbreaking and inspirational, not only for women but for the sport as a whole. Dominating both domestic and international competitions, she shattered records and paved the way for future generations of female cyclists.
Fabiana Luperini, born on January 14, 1974, in Pontedera, Italy, is an Italian professional cyclist who has achieved great success in her career. Luperini’s dedication to the sport and her exceptional talent have made her one of the most prominent cyclists in history. She has won the prestigious Giro d’Italia Femminile a record five times and excelled in other races, showcasing her unparalleled endurance and determination. Luperini’s remarkable career and numerous victories have solidified her place as one of the greatest female cyclists of all time.
Joane Somarriba Arrola, born on August 11, 1972, in Gernika, Biscay, is a former Spanish cyclist. She is known for her impressive achievements in the sport, including winning the Grande Boucle in 2000, 2001, and 2003. In addition, she achieved a time trial victory at the 2003 World Championships in Hamilton, Canada. Somarriba’s talent and dedication made her one of the most successful cyclists of her time.
Theresa Wallach (1909-1999) was a pioneering adventure motorcyclist, engineer, mechanic, and author. She dismantled her first engine in her bedroom at 18 and later studied engineering at Northampton Polytechnic Institute, excelling as the only woman in her course. Wallach’s incredible journey from London to Cape Town with Florence Blenkiron on a Panther motorcycle, as chronicled in her book “The Rugged Road,” solidified her place in history. Wallach’s accomplishments, including her induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, continue to inspire and showcase the resilience of women.
Margaret Wilson, a trailblazing female motorcyclist in post-World War II America, began her journey in 1946 when her husband surprised her with a Harley-Davidson. Overcoming physical obstacles, Margaret became an avid rider and covered over 550,000 miles on her motorcycles. Her dedication and impact on changing the perception of motorcycling earned her the nickname “golden gal” of motorcycling. Margaret’s involvement in motorcycle organizations showcased her commitment to the sport, and she was recognized as a Golden Life Member of the Motor Maids. Her passion for safety and achievements led to her being voted America’s Most Popular and Typical Girl Rider in 1958. Margaret Wilson’s contributions to motorcycling have made her a significant figure in women’s history.
Connie Carpenter-Phinney, an American retired racing cyclist and speed skater, achieved remarkable success in both sports. She competed in the Winter Olympics at age 14, becoming the youngest American female Winter Olympian at the time. She then shifted her focus to cycling and became a dominant figure, winning multiple national championships and an Olympic gold medal in 1984. Her groundbreaking influence on women’s athletics is undeniable.
Maria Canins, an Italian racing cyclist, made a significant impact in both road cycling and cross-country skiing. With her exceptional performances and victories, she became a trailblazer for women in cycling. Canins achieved remarkable feats, including winning the Tour de France Féminin twice and the inaugural Giro d’Italia Femminile. Her skill, dedication, and influence continue to inspire future generations of female athletes.
Jeannie Longo, born in 1958 in Annecy, Haute-Savoie, is a French racing cyclist who has left an indelible mark on the sport. With an impressive record of 25 French championships and 13 world championships, Longo’s career is a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication to cycling. Despite facing challenges and suspicions of doping throughout her career, her impact on the sport and enduring influence on future generations of cyclists cannot be denied.
Félicia Ballanger, born on June 12, 1971, in La Roche-sur-Yon, Vendée, is a retired French racing cyclist who has left an indelible mark on the world of track cycling. With an impressive career spanning from the early 1990s to the early 2000s, Ballanger distinguished herself as one of the most accomplished and dominant cyclists of her time.
Karen Darke, MBE, FRSGS, is a remarkable British Paralympic cyclist, paratriathlete, adventurer, and author. Born on June 25, 1971, in Halifax, Yorkshire, she has defied all odds and become an inspiration to many.
Kadeena Cox OBE is a parasport athlete and British television presenter. She has achieved remarkable success in both T38 para-athletics sprint events and C4 para-cycling, earning world titles and winning medals at the Paralympic Games. Cox made her mark on the international stage in 2015, claiming the world title in the T37 100m event. She showcased her versatility by securing the gold medal in the C4 500m time trial at the UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships in 2016. Cox’s pinnacle moment came at the 2016 Summer Paralympics, where she won a bronze medal in the Women’s 100m T38 sprint and gold medals in the Women’s C4-5 cycling time trial and T38 400m sprint. With these achievements, she became the first British Paralympian to win gold medals in multiple sports at the same Games since 1984. Beyond sports, Cox has also made appearances on TV shows like “I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!”
Debbie Lawler, the first female motorcyclist to beat Evel Knievel’s record, broke gender stereotypes and inspired generations of women. Known as “America’s stunt sweetheart,” Lawler’s dedication and fearlessness made her a trailblazer in the male-dominated world of extreme sports. Her legacy continues to empower women to pursue their passions and break through societal barriers.
Joyce Hoffman, the first female international surfing star, broke traditional gender boundaries to become a pioneer in her sport. Her exceptional skills and groundbreaking achievements have left an indelible mark on the world of surfing, inspiring a new generation of female surfers to pursue their passion and defy societal norms. Hoffman’s influence extends beyond her competitive triumphs, making her a true trailblazer in women’s surfing.
Clara Hughes, a Canadian cyclist and speed skater, has left an indelible mark on the sports world. With multiple Olympic medals in both cycling and speed skating, Hughes has carved her name in the annals of athletic history. Her achievements, perseverance, and dedication have made her a role model and an inspiration for many.