Women in Cycling – History and Modern Sheroes

Cycling has long been considered a symbol of freedom, strength, and endurance. Women have played a significant role in the development of this sport — from challenging social norms in the 19th century to setting records in modern competition. This blog celebrates their contribution and highlights the remarkable figures who shaped the world of cycling.

The Birth of a Movement

In the 1800s, the bicycle became a tool of freedom for women. It offered mobility and independence at a time when both were limited.

Annie Londonderry – In 1894, Annie became the first woman to cycle around the world, defying public expectations and demonstrating women’s capabilities.

Frances Willard – Author of the book “How I Learned to Ride the Bicycle.” Willard turned her journey of learning to ride into a symbol of women’s empowerment and independence.

Cycling and Women’s Rights

The bicycle became closely linked to the women’s suffrage movement. It helped women challenge restrictive gender norms and contributed to the broader struggle for equality.

"The bicycle has done more for the emancipation of women than anything else in the world." – Susan B. Anthony

Entering Competitive Sport

Despite their early contributions, women faced significant barriers in professional cycling.

Key Milestones

• 1958 – First official women’s road race at the UCI World Championships.
• 1984 – Women’s road race included in the Olympic Games.
• 2022 – Revival of Tour de France Femmes — a major milestone for women’s cycling.

Outstanding Figures in Modern Cycling

• Marianne Vos (Netherlands) – World champion in road, track, and cyclo-cross disciplines.
• Pauline Ferrand-Prévot (France) – The first cyclist to simultaneously hold world championship titles in road racing, cyclo-cross, and mountain biking.
• Annemiek van Vleuten (Netherlands) – Winner of the Tour de France Femmes in 2022.
• Chloé Dygert (USA) – Strong athlete in time trials and track cycling, who made a remarkable comeback after severe injuries.
• Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio (South Africa) – Olympian and entrepreneur supporting female athletes through digital platforms.

Cycling Activism in Georgia

• Lika Merabishvili – One of the key leaders promoting cycling mobility. As the coordinator of the “Road Safety Partnership,” she supports public initiatives and infrastructure improvement.
• Mar Mikhelidze – The Bicycle Mayor of Tbilisi, uniting cycling enthusiasts in road and mountain tours, teaching beginners, and promoting cycling culture.

Globally: Women’s Cycling

Women’s cycling is rapidly growing worldwide — both at the professional level and in everyday use.

Initiatives and Progress

• UCI Women’s WorldTour – Includes numerous professional races.
• Black Girls Do Bike and Women on Wheels – Promote inclusivity in cycling.
• Many countries are developing dedicated programs for women.

Existing Challenges

• Inequality in prize money between men’s and women’s races.
• Limited media coverage.
• Lack of sponsorship.
• Insufficient cycling infrastructure.

Future Directions

• Olympics 2028 – Full equality in race categories.
• Increased broadcasting and viewership of women’s races.
• Professional teams actively campaigning for equal pay.
• Digital platforms creating more opportunities for women.

Everyday Heroes

Not only champions — women who cycle to work, teach their children to ride, or simply enjoy riding around the city are all part of cycling history.

Conclusion

From the pioneers to today’s champions — women have continuously built and transformed the world of cycling. Through their dedication and achievements, the future of the sport becomes brighter and more equal.