ENANNIE FORD
Annie Ford, a climate activist, marine biologist, surfer, mountain biker, and world record holder, uses cycling to raise awareness for her passions and fundraise for important causes. From May to July 2024, she rode 2,337 miles from Mexico to Canada to raise money to stop offshore oil and gas projects.
In addition to advocating for the environment, Annie uses the bicycle to highlight gender inequities, serving as a role model for women worldwide. Her extraordinary achievements demonstrate that women, even solo and unsupported, can make a significant impact. While acknowledging the privileges she has had on her journey, she hopes to accelerate diversity and inclusion in the sport of cycling.
There is no one thing I know more empowering to woman than a bicycle.
Cycling has become one of the most empowering tools I’ve used to positively impact the causes I care deeply about. Bikes, with their universal appeal, transcend borders and demographics, making them a powerful vehicle for change. I’ve strategically leveraged cycling to raise awareness and support causes close to my heart, particularly in promoting gender equality in sports, an area that continues to face significant challenges despite growing momentum for change.
Few other sports offer the unique combination of benefits that cycling provides. Its global reach (with events like the Tour de France attracting millions of viewers), versatility (from daily commuting to off-road bikepacking and long-distance road racing), and ability to empower individuals (offering freedom, independence, and opportunity) set it apart. With sustained advocacy and support, the future of cycling will be brighter and more inclusive for all who embrace the sport, regardless of gender, background, or experience.
I consider myself exceptionally privileged. Many barriers that typically prevent people from fully participating in cycling were removed for me through the kindness and generosity of friends and strangers in the biking community. In my early days, I had bikes loaned to me for free, access to quality bikes at affordable prices, professional riders as friends who helped me rapidly improve my skills, and world-class trails like Maydena Bike Park right on my doorstep. I faced no financial, accessibility, or skill-related barriers.
However, this experience is rare. For most, bikes are expensive to buy or rent, trails are often far away, and the language of cycling can be difficult to learn. Lessons can be costly, and many simply don't have the opportunities I had. Without the generosity I received, I wouldn’t be where I am today. My journey stands as proof of what is possible when barriers are removed and when people are supported and empowered.
To address these challenges and create a more accessible and equitable cycling environment, we must provide opportunities for people to try bike riding for free, offer affordable lessons, and build trails and facilities near population centers. By creating a system where everyone can access these resources, we can ensure that cycling becomes a viable option for all, not just for those with financial means or access to specialized equipment.
The role of community and support networks, especially for women in cycling, cannot be overstated. Whether through local clubs or international organizations, these networks offer resources, mentorship, and encouragement at every level of the sport. By offering support, encouraging friends to try cycling, or joining local clubs, we can help create a more inclusive and supportive cycling community for everyone.
Riding bikes has brought me lasting friendships and incredible experiences, pushing my limits in ways I never imagined. Looking ahead, I hope to see more assistance provided to women interested in cycling—particularly in the form of affordable bike rentals, accessible lessons, equal prize money at events, and fair representation at every level of the industry.
Visibility and sponsorships for women in cycling are essential in driving the sport’s growth and inspiring more girls to get involved. As the visibility of female cyclists increases, so does accessibility to bikes and trails, encouraging even more women to take up the sport. Sponsorships have been vital in providing female cyclists with the financial support they need to train and compete at the highest level, allowing them to focus on their athletic development while gaining the exposure they deserve.
The push for equality and inclusion in cycling is gaining momentum, and the future looks promising. As more girls are given the opportunity and support to engage with the sport, they will have greater access to resources, leading to a stronger, more diverse cycling community. Role models like Casey Brown, Vali Höll , and Lael Wilcox have already proven how successful women can be in cycling, encouraging more young girls to take up the sport. This increase in participation ensures a steady pipeline of talent and strengthens the cycling community.
Additionally, sponsorship opportunities are becoming more abundant as brands recognize the marketability and influence of female cyclists. This financial support is essential to elevating the profiles of these athletes and increasing the visibility of women’s cycling to a broader audience. As this support continues to grow, so will the opportunities for future female athletes, empowering them to pursue careers in cycling and compete at the highest levels.
I am committed to contributing to this positive change by continuing my advocacy for the sport, supporting and encouraging women in cycling, and highlighting its physical and environmental benefits. Cycling’s emphasis on sustainability resonates with a broader audience, attracting those passionate about both athleticism and environmental stewardship. Through collective effort and continued advocacy, I believe we can create a more inclusive and equitable future for cycling, where everyone—regardless of gender—can experience the empowerment and joy that riding a bike brings.
Words by Annie Ford | Photos by Chris Dunn