{"id":2012574,"date":"2026-06-25T10:05:54","date_gmt":"2026-06-25T07:05:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2012574"},"modified":"2026-06-25T10:05:54","modified_gmt":"2026-06-25T07:05:54","slug":"its-crazy-how-much-can-change-in-a-year-lauren-dicksons-remarkable-rise-from-cycling-newbie-to-smashing-grand-tours-with-demi-vollering","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2012574","title":{"rendered":"&#8216;It&#8217;s crazy how much can change in a year&#8217; \u2013 Lauren Dickson&#8217;s remarkable rise from cycling newbie to smashing Grand Tours with Demi Vollering"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-1024-80.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none upnext-article-divider\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 1 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DCs8vAeEcyYK4biYWhQxET-160-80.png.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DCs8vAeEcyYK4biYWhQxET-80-80.png.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-4 h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">1<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    How moving to Europe as a 17-year-old changed my life \u2013 Luke Tuckwell&#8217;s rapid rise to the pro ranks, in his own words\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none upnext-article-divider\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 2 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zkdkJAP4Y8UEpSpwv9wjpa-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zkdkJAP4Y8UEpSpwv9wjpa-80-80.jpg.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-[18px] h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">2<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    &#8216;My year of radical experimentation&#8217; \u2013 Kate Courtney&#8217;s first US Road Nationals is one to remember, so will we see her on the tarmac more?\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 3 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rh92PYzpUFcZqJj6HdxmCc-160-80.png.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rh92PYzpUFcZqJj6HdxmCc-80-80.png.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-[18px] h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">3<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    Why a resurgent Marlen Reusser should be a real worry for Demi Vollering and Pauline Ferrand-Pr\u00e9vot at the Tour de France Femmes \u2013 Analysis\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nWomen&#8217;s Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;It&#8217;s crazy how much can change in a year&#8217; \u2013 Lauren Dickson&#8217;s remarkable rise from cycling newbie to smashing Grand Tours with Demi Vollering<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline font-ui-heading text-[12px]\">\nFeatures<\/p>\n<div><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nOwen Rogers <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-06-25T10:05:54Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n25 June 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Scottish rider outlines how she&#8217;s gone from a road racing newbie to top stage racer in just over two years<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit))] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-750-80.jpg.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text font-article-copy\">Lauren Dickson<\/span><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">1<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-d3f52bda-1549-4ead-a53b-191506f3d652\">When Demi Vollering invited her FDJ United-SUEZ teammates onto the podium after winning the recent Giro d&#8217;Italia Women one face stood out. With neither sunglasses nor helmet, Lauren Dickson&#8217;s smile shone brightly, but there was also the merest hint of bewilderment.<\/p>\n<p>Dickson had finished 11th overall in her first Grand Tour but her performance was all the more remarkable considering how recently she began road racing. After being a runner, triathlete and duathlete she only started the sport in April 2024, the day after her 24th birthday.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d3f52bda-1549-4ead-a53b-191506f3d652-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Her contribution in support of Vollering at the Giro was huge. She was the Dutch woman&#8217;s final mountain domestique and without her efforts there is every chance Vollering would never have overhauled Anna van der Breggen (SD Worx-Protime) on that dramatic final stage.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand inline-flex items-center\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block h-[18px] w-auto shrink-0 brightness-0 invert\"><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"aspect-video w-full min-h-[200px] lg:min-h-[330px] relative overflow-hidden bg-black\" data-jwp-carousel-container>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full items-center justify-center bg-white\" data-jwp-carousel-fallback><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] max-h-12 w-auto\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;We always had the goal of coming to the Giro to win, and then after the time trial, we realised that it was going to be super hard because Anna was so strong,&#8221; Dickson told <em>Cyclingnews<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;When you start the ninth stage you feel pretty awful when you know it&#8217;s going to be such hard work. The girls were fighting so hard to get into the breakaway and it just wasn&#8217;t going. You&#8217;re really starting to wonder, &#8216;is it actually going to be possible?'&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;I don&#8217;t think I&#8217;ve ever had a harder day on the bike&#8217; &#8211; Lauren Dickson impresses in Giro d&#8217;Italia mountain domestique role for Demi Vollering<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">The Giro d&#8217;Italia Women should be Demi Vollering&#8217;s to lose, but Grand Tour domination has rarely come naturally to her \u2013 Analysis<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Tour de Suisse Women: Femke de Vries outsprints Lauren Dickson to claim first professional victory on hard-fought stage 1<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">However, the day&#8217;s main climb proved hugely selective, Dickson emerging with a group of GC riders and the stage and overall win still at stake. For the second time in just a handful of days Dickson played a key part, keeping Vollering just about close enough to a leading trio to facilitate the winning move.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;The entire race you&#8217;re wondering, &#8216;Have we left it too late? Have we done enough?&#8217; and the radio gets too far away to hear what&#8217;s happening so when you cross the line you find out. It&#8217;s so nice and Demi was so happy.&#8221;<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-u9eWS4zimzALp7bdHww8Li\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-u9eWS4zimzALp7bdHww8Li slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"where-it-all-started-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Where it all started<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-503354e3-35d7-48c1-bcaf-2df73ecee4c3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Dickson&#8217;s athletic ability was spotted while playing tennis as a young child, and she began running in primary school. After representing Scotland in a multitude of disciplines and Great Britain in trail running at European and World Championships, she eventually gravitated to triathlon, where some friends were competing.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">At Leeds University, she trained with both British Athletics and British Tri, but while studying in Barcelona, she focused first on triathlon and then duathlon, even racing against recent Vuelta Femenina winner, Paula Blasi (UAE Team ADQ). However, after competing at the European Championships, she began to suffer from a foot injury, and a visit to see her boyfriend, Picnic-PostNL rider Sean Flynn, changed everything.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;One of his housemates rides for AG [Insurance-Soudal] and she was asking about my power numbers, because I would just go out to the big climbs and try and get the QOMs, and she saw the data I&#8217;d done for a five-minute effort.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">La Vuelta Femenina conclusions \u2013 A new generation shines, cycling&#8217;s new Swiss Army knife, and attacking pays off<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Lauren Dickson suffered a broken collarbone in stage 3 crash at the Tour de Suisse<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;I had to dare to lose it all&#8217; \u2013 How Demi Vollering snatched the pink jersey at last gasp on an epic Giro d&#8217;Italia Women finale<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">As a result, in April 2024, Dickson and Eilidh Shaw, who is now with the UAE Development Team, accidentally entered the Open category at the JG Cycles races close to Glasgow. In a field full of men, Dickson finished 44th.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;That was such a blessing because it meant I went in a huge bunch, really high pace. In the UK it&#8217;s hard to get 80 women in a domestic race, so here I was with 80 men and Eilidh.<em>&#8220;<\/em><\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">A new bike followed, as did victories, and Dickson finished in the top 10 of every domestic race she completed that season. The standout result was second place at the National Series Lancaster GP and as a result the Scottish Continental team, Handsling-Alba Development, offered her a place. She was soon racing in Belgium. That was late July and by the end of September she&#8217;d quit her job.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;I&#8217;d used all my holidays up at work, so basically, I either didn&#8217;t race or I took the plunge and went full-time,&#8221; Dickson explained. &#8220;By this point, I started being trained by [former pro rider] Evan Oliphant from Scottish Cycling and I was trying to do three-hour rides at 5am before work or in the dark at 10pm. Experiences like those you have for life. On the road at 5 am, it&#8217;s actually quite cool but not practical for a long time. I always wanted to take a gap year and try to become a professional triathlete, so why not do it in cycling?&#8221;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-5cb2b155-68aa-4662-8813-d5e521c3aca1\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lauren Dickson on the podium with FDJ United-SUEZ at the Giro d&#8217;Italia <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-39b78e1c-987c-4c7a-bf8e-4627076e0352\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">That commitment led to outstanding results. There were two UCI stage race podiums, second place at the 1.1 Point du Raz in France behind Blasi then, days later, the win at the Rapha Lincoln GP, arguably the UK&#8217;s most prestigious domestic race. Her first experience of WorldTour racing came at the 2025 Tour of Britain Women, the anniversary of which came on stage 7 of the Giro.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;Strava tells you what you did a year ago, and I had the recapture from the first stage of the Tour of Britain,&#8221; she explains. &#8220;I had captured it as &#8216;obliterated by the WorldTour&#8217;, and I just remember at one point the road was gridlocked, I just could not figure how to move up. Now when I&#8217;m in the bunch and I&#8217;m moving through, that&#8217;s when you start to think, &#8216;crikey, it&#8217;s crazy how much can change in a year&#8217;.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">By then, the path to a professional contract was already starting to take shape after chatting with former British road and TT champion turned rider agent, Hannah Barnes.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;She&#8217;d seen my numbers already, and then she started speaking to teams. I&#8217;m never too sure when FDJ got in contact, I just remember she asked me, &#8216;How would it feel if you were riding in an FDJ United-SUEZ jersey?&#8217; At the time, I just couldn&#8217;t believe it. I did a race and I just remember looking at the girls in the team but still you don&#8217;t think it would happen.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After a chat with the team manager, Stephen Delcourt, her future was sealed with a two-year contract.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">As she found out at the Tour of Britain last year, you can have all the athletic ability but, if you can&#8217;t handle your bike and navigate a peloton, success is hard to come by. To ensure she began the learning process as early as possible Dickson made her debut for the French team in January at the Tour Down Under.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;Because the bunch is slightly smaller, it&#8217;s a perfect place to learn,&#8221; Dickson says. &#8220;Even coming into roundabouts last year I&#8217;d have been losing 10 positions with so much energy accelerating up again, whereas now I come into a roundabout and I either hold position or I gain position and that&#8217;s not pedalling, that&#8217;s not extra watts.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Not only is her positioning now better than others who&#8217;ve been in the bunch far longer, but we saw in the Giro that her descending is also much more than adequate.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;I do descending lessons once or twice a week, and I really think it&#8217;s worth it. If you want to be the best, you need to make sure every little detail is in place. It&#8217;s skills more than just descending. I did [learn to] bunny hop last year, and in the Giro two girls crashed in front of me and I bunny hopped over the bike. Had I not been able to jump I would have crashed and not been there to help Demi, so it&#8217;s all the little things that add up.&#8221;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-5b3aa19d-a710-4109-adfb-9162bd7e13c9\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lauren Dickson descending in the Giro d&#8217;Itala Women chase group on stage 9 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-481bd65e-e523-4420-a6ad-f66944d9bdf9\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It&#8217;s this kind of dedication, focus, and desire to become a professional athlete that has brought Dickson to the top of the sport but it may never have happened at all given she suffered multiple injuries when hit by a car while training in 2019.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;I broke my neck and all my ribs,&#8221; she says. &#8220;That was a really key moment in my life. It took six months before I could even get out of bed properly and, the first time I rode my bike, the bars dropped. I just remember we were stood at the side of the road with me crying. My dad asked, &#8216;do you want to turn back or do you want to carry on?&#8217; The fact we carried on, riding through Edinburgh still crying, but I didn&#8217;t give up, and I think that is super poignant.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Dickson will need some of that resolve over the coming weeks after breaking her collarbone in a crash at the Tour de Suisse Women. However, that injury comes at the end of a string of results any rider, let alone a first-year pro, would be happy with. Her 13 top 10 finishes include two GC podium places, one of which was the WorldTour level Itzulia Women.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Dickson&#8217;s journey to the top of the sport might have been short, but her story perfectly illustrates how she makes the most of her physicality. She&#8217;s quickly become an accomplished climber and stage racer, and it may not be too long before she&#8217;s also challenging for her own Grand Tour results.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-u9eWS4zimzALp7bdHww8Li\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-u9eWS4zimzALp7bdHww8Li slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Owen Rogers<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Owen Rogers is an experienced journalist, covering the sport for various magazines and websites for more than 10 years.<\/p>\n<p>Initially concentrating mainly on the women&#8217;s sport, he has covered hundreds of race days on the ground and interviewed some of the sport&#8217;s biggest names.<\/p>\n<p>Living near Cambridge in the UK, when he&#8217;s not working you&#8217;ll find him either riding his bike or playing drums.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[1070px] viafoura-twig-component mt-6 mx-4 lg:mx-0\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=&apos;vfcustom-community-guidelines&apos;&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1 rounded-b-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-lg!\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-sm!\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I don&#8217;t think I&#8217;ve ever had a harder day on the bike&#8217; &#8211; Lauren Dickson impresses in Giro d&#8217;Italia mountain domestique role for Demi Vollering<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">The Giro d&#8217;Italia Women should be Demi Vollering&#8217;s to lose, but Grand Tour domination has rarely come naturally to her \u2013 Analysis<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tour de Suisse Women: Femke de Vries outsprints Lauren Dickson to claim first professional victory on hard-fought stage 1<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">La Vuelta Femenina conclusions \u2013 A new generation shines, cycling&#8217;s new Swiss Army knife, and attacking pays off<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Lauren Dickson suffered a broken collarbone in stage 3 crash at the Tour de Suisse<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I had to dare to lose it all&#8217; \u2013 How Demi Vollering snatched the pink jersey at last gasp on an epic Giro d&#8217;Italia Women finale<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5AdqQPZ65Vug79jtuiTT3-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5AdqQPZ65Vug79jtuiTT3-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5AdqQPZ65Vug79jtuiTT3-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5AdqQPZ65Vug79jtuiTT3-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5AdqQPZ65Vug79jtuiTT3-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Franziska Koch scores first German time trial title after double road race victories<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CBaMYsprNPmxBYpwrPCq5-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CBaMYsprNPmxBYpwrPCq5-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CBaMYsprNPmxBYpwrPCq5-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CBaMYsprNPmxBYpwrPCq5-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CBaMYsprNPmxBYpwrPCq5-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Former world champion Lizzie Deignan takes up sports director role with British Cycling ahead of LA Olympics<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CF8MuE59kZaVSR7XCYCL7A-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CF8MuE59kZaVSR7XCYCL7A-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CF8MuE59kZaVSR7XCYCL7A-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CF8MuE59kZaVSR7XCYCL7A-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CF8MuE59kZaVSR7XCYCL7A-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Lara Gillespie strikes for gold in elite women&#8217;s time trial debut at Irish National Time Trial Championship<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/q2Ghrakar7umCy4ScREiXj-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/q2Ghrakar7umCy4ScREiXj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/q2Ghrakar7umCy4ScREiXj-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/q2Ghrakar7umCy4ScREiXj-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/q2Ghrakar7umCy4ScREiXj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Nadia Gontova claims career-first elite women&#8217;s time trial title at Canadian Road Championships<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fGBsEM4bFkdNxaqhMbUPs-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fGBsEM4bFkdNxaqhMbUPs-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fGBsEM4bFkdNxaqhMbUPs-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fGBsEM4bFkdNxaqhMbUPs-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fGBsEM4bFkdNxaqhMbUPs-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">C\u00e9lia Le Mou\u00ebl shocks the favourites to triumph in women&#8217;s elite time trial at French National Championships<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vFem6GRNVsAT3pXNdzoBrM-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vFem6GRNVsAT3pXNdzoBrM-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vFem6GRNVsAT3pXNdzoBrM-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vFem6GRNVsAT3pXNdzoBrM-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vFem6GRNVsAT3pXNdzoBrM-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Mireia Benito takes fourth consecutive elite women&#8217;s Spanish time trial title<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Features<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">The High Temperature Protocol, switching dates, racing in the morning \u2013 What could the future of the Tour de France look like as summer temperatures continue to rise?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xYehNdGJyBUwNetTFTfRVL-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xYehNdGJyBUwNetTFTfRVL-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xYehNdGJyBUwNetTFTfRVL-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xYehNdGJyBUwNetTFTfRVL-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xYehNdGJyBUwNetTFTfRVL-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tour de France team-by-team guide \u2013 Line-up, leaders and ambitions for every squad on the start list<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vqqtZmiJMoZQD2csCZrp5V-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vqqtZmiJMoZQD2csCZrp5V-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vqqtZmiJMoZQD2csCZrp5V-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vqqtZmiJMoZQD2csCZrp5V-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vqqtZmiJMoZQD2csCZrp5V-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Jonas Vingegaard will try, but in reality, no one is likely to upset the Tadej Poga\u010dar show at the Tour de France \u2013 Philippa York analysis<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w2yKVk6YqjVoyao7mRTdRT-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w2yKVk6YqjVoyao7mRTdRT-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w2yKVk6YqjVoyao7mRTdRT-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w2yKVk6YqjVoyao7mRTdRT-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w2yKVk6YqjVoyao7mRTdRT-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Kit &amp; Accessories<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">New Prologo MIG AIR CPC and MIG CPC gloves ensure aerodynamics, fit and comfort<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F9aNQKLW9rmhuXWVgxXCsH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F9aNQKLW9rmhuXWVgxXCsH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F9aNQKLW9rmhuXWVgxXCsH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F9aNQKLW9rmhuXWVgxXCsH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F9aNQKLW9rmhuXWVgxXCsH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Altitude top-ups, recons, and down time \u2013 What are the yellow jersey hopefuls up to ahead of the Tour de France?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnkPYXgdLgSufmTxeFiQta-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnkPYXgdLgSufmTxeFiQta-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnkPYXgdLgSufmTxeFiQta-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnkPYXgdLgSufmTxeFiQta-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnkPYXgdLgSufmTxeFiQta-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Culture<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tips to stay cool and safe when cycling in the heat<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list 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German time trial title as narrow margins separate stacked podium<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe announce full Tour de France team and &#8216;dual leadership approach&#8217; around Remco Evenepoel and Florian Lipowitz<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Tour de France team-by-team guide \u2013 Line-up, leaders and ambitions for every squad on the start list<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nWomen&#8217;s Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;It&#8217;s crazy how much can change in a year&#8217; \u2013 Lauren Dickson&#8217;s remarkable rise from cycling newbie to smashing Grand Tours with Demi Vollering<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline font-ui-heading text-[12px]\">\nFeatures<\/p>\n<div><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nOwen Rogers <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-06-25T10:05:54Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n25 June 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Scottish rider outlines how she&#8217;s gone from a road racing newbie to top stage racer in just over two years<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit))] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] 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Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-750-80.jpg.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text font-article-copy\">Lauren Dickson<\/span><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">1<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-d3f52bda-1549-4ead-a53b-191506f3d652\">When Demi Vollering invited her FDJ United-SUEZ teammates onto the podium after winning the recent Giro d&#8217;Italia Women one face stood out. With neither sunglasses nor helmet, Lauren Dickson&#8217;s smile shone brightly, but there was also the merest hint of bewilderment.<\/p>\n<p>Dickson had finished 11th overall in her first Grand Tour but her performance was all the more remarkable considering how recently she began road racing. After being a runner, triathlete and duathlete she only started the sport in April 2024, the day after her 24th birthday.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d3f52bda-1549-4ead-a53b-191506f3d652-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Her contribution in support of Vollering at the Giro was huge. She was the Dutch woman&#8217;s final mountain domestique and without her efforts there is every chance Vollering would never have overhauled Anna van der Breggen (SD Worx-Protime) on that dramatic final stage.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand inline-flex items-center\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block h-[18px] w-auto shrink-0 brightness-0 invert\"><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"aspect-video w-full min-h-[200px] lg:min-h-[330px] relative overflow-hidden bg-black\" data-jwp-carousel-container>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full items-center justify-center bg-white\" data-jwp-carousel-fallback><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] max-h-12 w-auto\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;We always had the goal of coming to the Giro to win, and then after the time trial, we realised that it was going to be super hard because Anna was so strong,&#8221; Dickson told <em>Cyclingnews<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;When you start the ninth stage you feel pretty awful when you know it&#8217;s going to be such hard work. The girls were fighting so hard to get into the breakaway and it just wasn&#8217;t going. You&#8217;re really starting to wonder, &#8216;is it actually going to be possible?'&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;I don&#8217;t think I&#8217;ve ever had a harder day on the bike&#8217; &#8211; Lauren Dickson impresses in Giro d&#8217;Italia mountain domestique role for Demi Vollering<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">The Giro d&#8217;Italia Women should be Demi Vollering&#8217;s to lose, but Grand Tour domination has rarely come naturally to her \u2013 Analysis<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Tour de Suisse Women: Femke de Vries outsprints Lauren Dickson to claim first professional victory on hard-fought stage 1<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">However, the day&#8217;s main climb proved hugely selective, Dickson emerging with a group of GC riders and the stage and overall win still at stake. For the second time in just a handful of days Dickson played a key part, keeping Vollering just about close enough to a leading trio to facilitate the winning move.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;The entire race you&#8217;re wondering, &#8216;Have we left it too late? Have we done enough?&#8217; and the radio gets too far away to hear what&#8217;s happening so when you cross the line you find out. It&#8217;s so nice and Demi was so happy.&#8221;<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-u9eWS4zimzALp7bdHww8Li\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-u9eWS4zimzALp7bdHww8Li slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"where-it-all-started-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Where it all started<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-503354e3-35d7-48c1-bcaf-2df73ecee4c3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Dickson&#8217;s athletic ability was spotted while playing tennis as a young child, and she began running in primary school. After representing Scotland in a multitude of disciplines and Great Britain in trail running at European and World Championships, she eventually gravitated to triathlon, where some friends were competing.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">At Leeds University, she trained with both British Athletics and British Tri, but while studying in Barcelona, she focused first on triathlon and then duathlon, even racing against recent Vuelta Femenina winner, Paula Blasi (UAE Team ADQ). However, after competing at the European Championships, she began to suffer from a foot injury, and a visit to see her boyfriend, Picnic-PostNL rider Sean Flynn, changed everything.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;One of his housemates rides for AG [Insurance-Soudal] and she was asking about my power numbers, because I would just go out to the big climbs and try and get the QOMs, and she saw the data I&#8217;d done for a five-minute effort.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">La Vuelta Femenina conclusions \u2013 A new generation shines, cycling&#8217;s new Swiss Army knife, and attacking pays off<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Lauren Dickson suffered a broken collarbone in stage 3 crash at the Tour de Suisse<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;I had to dare to lose it all&#8217; \u2013 How Demi Vollering snatched the pink jersey at last gasp on an epic Giro d&#8217;Italia Women finale<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">As a result, in April 2024, Dickson and Eilidh Shaw, who is now with the UAE Development Team, accidentally entered the Open category at the JG Cycles races close to Glasgow. In a field full of men, Dickson finished 44th.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;That was such a blessing because it meant I went in a huge bunch, really high pace. In the UK it&#8217;s hard to get 80 women in a domestic race, so here I was with 80 men and Eilidh.<em>&#8220;<\/em><\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">A new bike followed, as did victories, and Dickson finished in the top 10 of every domestic race she completed that season. The standout result was second place at the National Series Lancaster GP and as a result the Scottish Continental team, Handsling-Alba Development, offered her a place. She was soon racing in Belgium. That was late July and by the end of September she&#8217;d quit her job.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;I&#8217;d used all my holidays up at work, so basically, I either didn&#8217;t race or I took the plunge and went full-time,&#8221; Dickson explained. &#8220;By this point, I started being trained by [former pro rider] Evan Oliphant from Scottish Cycling and I was trying to do three-hour rides at 5am before work or in the dark at 10pm. Experiences like those you have for life. On the road at 5 am, it&#8217;s actually quite cool but not practical for a long time. I always wanted to take a gap year and try to become a professional triathlete, so why not do it in cycling?&#8221;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-5cb2b155-68aa-4662-8813-d5e521c3aca1\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lauren Dickson on the podium with FDJ United-SUEZ at the Giro d&#8217;Italia <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-39b78e1c-987c-4c7a-bf8e-4627076e0352\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">That commitment led to outstanding results. There were two UCI stage race podiums, second place at the 1.1 Point du Raz in France behind Blasi then, days later, the win at the Rapha Lincoln GP, arguably the UK&#8217;s most prestigious domestic race. Her first experience of WorldTour racing came at the 2025 Tour of Britain Women, the anniversary of which came on stage 7 of the Giro.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;Strava tells you what you did a year ago, and I had the recapture from the first stage of the Tour of Britain,&#8221; she explains. &#8220;I had captured it as &#8216;obliterated by the WorldTour&#8217;, and I just remember at one point the road was gridlocked, I just could not figure how to move up. Now when I&#8217;m in the bunch and I&#8217;m moving through, that&#8217;s when you start to think, &#8216;crikey, it&#8217;s crazy how much can change in a year&#8217;.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">By then, the path to a professional contract was already starting to take shape after chatting with former British road and TT champion turned rider agent, Hannah Barnes.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;She&#8217;d seen my numbers already, and then she started speaking to teams. I&#8217;m never too sure when FDJ got in contact, I just remember she asked me, &#8216;How would it feel if you were riding in an FDJ United-SUEZ jersey?&#8217; At the time, I just couldn&#8217;t believe it. I did a race and I just remember looking at the girls in the team but still you don&#8217;t think it would happen.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After a chat with the team manager, Stephen Delcourt, her future was sealed with a two-year contract.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">As she found out at the Tour of Britain last year, you can have all the athletic ability but, if you can&#8217;t handle your bike and navigate a peloton, success is hard to come by. To ensure she began the learning process as early as possible Dickson made her debut for the French team in January at the Tour Down Under.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;Because the bunch is slightly smaller, it&#8217;s a perfect place to learn,&#8221; Dickson says. &#8220;Even coming into roundabouts last year I&#8217;d have been losing 10 positions with so much energy accelerating up again, whereas now I come into a roundabout and I either hold position or I gain position and that&#8217;s not pedalling, that&#8217;s not extra watts.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Not only is her positioning now better than others who&#8217;ve been in the bunch far longer, but we saw in the Giro that her descending is also much more than adequate.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;I do descending lessons once or twice a week, and I really think it&#8217;s worth it. If you want to be the best, you need to make sure every little detail is in place. It&#8217;s skills more than just descending. I did [learn to] bunny hop last year, and in the Giro two girls crashed in front of me and I bunny hopped over the bike. Had I not been able to jump I would have crashed and not been there to help Demi, so it&#8217;s all the little things that add up.&#8221;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-5b3aa19d-a710-4109-adfb-9162bd7e13c9\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lauren Dickson descending in the Giro d&#8217;Itala Women chase group on stage 9 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-481bd65e-e523-4420-a6ad-f66944d9bdf9\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It&#8217;s this kind of dedication, focus, and desire to become a professional athlete that has brought Dickson to the top of the sport but it may never have happened at all given she suffered multiple injuries when hit by a car while training in 2019.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;I broke my neck and all my ribs,&#8221; she says. &#8220;That was a really key moment in my life. It took six months before I could even get out of bed properly and, the first time I rode my bike, the bars dropped. I just remember we were stood at the side of the road with me crying. My dad asked, &#8216;do you want to turn back or do you want to carry on?&#8217; The fact we carried on, riding through Edinburgh still crying, but I didn&#8217;t give up, and I think that is super poignant.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Dickson will need some of that resolve over the coming weeks after breaking her collarbone in a crash at the Tour de Suisse Women. However, that injury comes at the end of a string of results any rider, let alone a first-year pro, would be happy with. Her 13 top 10 finishes include two GC podium places, one of which was the WorldTour level Itzulia Women.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Dickson&#8217;s journey to the top of the sport might have been short, but her story perfectly illustrates how she makes the most of her physicality. She&#8217;s quickly become an accomplished climber and stage racer, and it may not be too long before she&#8217;s also challenging for her own Grand Tour results.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-u9eWS4zimzALp7bdHww8Li\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-u9eWS4zimzALp7bdHww8Li slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Owen Rogers<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Owen Rogers is an experienced journalist, covering the sport for various magazines and websites for more than 10 years.<\/p>\n<p>Initially concentrating mainly on the women&#8217;s sport, he has covered hundreds of race days on the ground and interviewed some of the sport&#8217;s biggest names.<\/p>\n<p>Living near Cambridge in the UK, when he&#8217;s not working you&#8217;ll find him either riding his bike or playing drums.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[1070px] viafoura-twig-component mt-6 mx-4 lg:mx-0\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=&apos;vfcustom-community-guidelines&apos;&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1 rounded-b-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-lg!\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-sm!\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I don&#8217;t think I&#8217;ve ever had a harder day on the bike&#8217; &#8211; Lauren Dickson impresses in Giro d&#8217;Italia mountain domestique role for Demi Vollering<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">The Giro d&#8217;Italia Women should be Demi Vollering&#8217;s to lose, but Grand Tour domination has rarely come naturally to her \u2013 Analysis<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tour de Suisse Women: Femke de Vries outsprints Lauren Dickson to claim first professional victory on hard-fought stage 1<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">La Vuelta Femenina conclusions \u2013 A new generation shines, cycling&#8217;s new Swiss Army knife, and attacking pays off<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Lauren Dickson suffered a broken collarbone in stage 3 crash at the Tour de Suisse<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I had to dare to lose it all&#8217; \u2013 How Demi Vollering snatched the pink jersey at last gasp on an epic Giro d&#8217;Italia Women finale<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5AdqQPZ65Vug79jtuiTT3-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5AdqQPZ65Vug79jtuiTT3-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5AdqQPZ65Vug79jtuiTT3-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5AdqQPZ65Vug79jtuiTT3-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5AdqQPZ65Vug79jtuiTT3-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Franziska Koch scores first German time trial title after double road race victories<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CBaMYsprNPmxBYpwrPCq5-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CBaMYsprNPmxBYpwrPCq5-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CBaMYsprNPmxBYpwrPCq5-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CBaMYsprNPmxBYpwrPCq5-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CBaMYsprNPmxBYpwrPCq5-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Former world champion Lizzie Deignan takes up sports director role with British Cycling ahead of LA Olympics<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CF8MuE59kZaVSR7XCYCL7A-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CF8MuE59kZaVSR7XCYCL7A-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CF8MuE59kZaVSR7XCYCL7A-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CF8MuE59kZaVSR7XCYCL7A-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CF8MuE59kZaVSR7XCYCL7A-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Lara Gillespie strikes for gold in elite women&#8217;s time trial debut at Irish National Time Trial Championship<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/q2Ghrakar7umCy4ScREiXj-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/q2Ghrakar7umCy4ScREiXj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/q2Ghrakar7umCy4ScREiXj-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/q2Ghrakar7umCy4ScREiXj-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/q2Ghrakar7umCy4ScREiXj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Nadia Gontova claims career-first elite women&#8217;s time trial title at Canadian Road Championships<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fGBsEM4bFkdNxaqhMbUPs-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fGBsEM4bFkdNxaqhMbUPs-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fGBsEM4bFkdNxaqhMbUPs-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fGBsEM4bFkdNxaqhMbUPs-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fGBsEM4bFkdNxaqhMbUPs-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">C\u00e9lia Le Mou\u00ebl shocks the favourites to triumph in women&#8217;s elite time trial at French National Championships<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vFem6GRNVsAT3pXNdzoBrM-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vFem6GRNVsAT3pXNdzoBrM-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vFem6GRNVsAT3pXNdzoBrM-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vFem6GRNVsAT3pXNdzoBrM-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vFem6GRNVsAT3pXNdzoBrM-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Mireia Benito takes fourth consecutive elite women&#8217;s Spanish time trial title<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Features<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">The High Temperature Protocol, switching dates, racing in the morning \u2013 What could the future of the Tour de France look like as summer temperatures continue to rise?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xYehNdGJyBUwNetTFTfRVL-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xYehNdGJyBUwNetTFTfRVL-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xYehNdGJyBUwNetTFTfRVL-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xYehNdGJyBUwNetTFTfRVL-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xYehNdGJyBUwNetTFTfRVL-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tour de France team-by-team guide \u2013 Line-up, leaders and ambitions for every squad on the start list<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vqqtZmiJMoZQD2csCZrp5V-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vqqtZmiJMoZQD2csCZrp5V-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vqqtZmiJMoZQD2csCZrp5V-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vqqtZmiJMoZQD2csCZrp5V-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vqqtZmiJMoZQD2csCZrp5V-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Jonas Vingegaard will try, but in reality, no one is likely to upset the Tadej Poga\u010dar show at the Tour de France \u2013 Philippa York analysis<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w2yKVk6YqjVoyao7mRTdRT-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w2yKVk6YqjVoyao7mRTdRT-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w2yKVk6YqjVoyao7mRTdRT-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w2yKVk6YqjVoyao7mRTdRT-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w2yKVk6YqjVoyao7mRTdRT-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Kit &amp; Accessories<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">New Prologo MIG AIR CPC and MIG CPC gloves ensure aerodynamics, fit and comfort<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F9aNQKLW9rmhuXWVgxXCsH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F9aNQKLW9rmhuXWVgxXCsH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F9aNQKLW9rmhuXWVgxXCsH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F9aNQKLW9rmhuXWVgxXCsH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F9aNQKLW9rmhuXWVgxXCsH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Altitude top-ups, recons, and down time \u2013 What are the yellow jersey hopefuls up to ahead of the Tour de France?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnkPYXgdLgSufmTxeFiQta-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnkPYXgdLgSufmTxeFiQta-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnkPYXgdLgSufmTxeFiQta-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnkPYXgdLgSufmTxeFiQta-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bnkPYXgdLgSufmTxeFiQta-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Culture<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tips to stay cool and safe when cycling in the heat<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list 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class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Eurobike 2026: Five new bikes that caught my eye<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">The High Temperature Protocol, switching dates, racing in the morning \u2013 What could the future of the Tour de France look like as summer temperatures continue to rise?<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Nils Politt reclaims German time trial title as narrow margins separate stacked podium<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe announce full Tour de France team and &#8216;dual leadership approach&#8217; around Remco Evenepoel and Florian Lipowitz<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Tour de France team-by-team guide \u2013 Line-up, leaders and ambitions for every squad on the start list<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nWomen&#8217;s Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;It&#8217;s crazy how much can change in a year&#8217; \u2013 Lauren Dickson&#8217;s remarkable rise from cycling newbie to smashing Grand Tours with Demi Vollering<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline font-ui-heading text-[12px]\">\nFeatures<\/p>\n<div><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nOwen Rogers <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-06-25T10:05:54Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n25 June 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Scottish rider outlines how she&#8217;s gone from a road racing newbie to top stage racer in just over two years<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit))] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">1<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-d3f52bda-1549-4ead-a53b-191506f3d652\">When Demi Vollering invited her FDJ United-SUEZ teammates onto the podium after winning the recent Giro d&#8217;Italia Women one face stood out. With neither sunglasses nor helmet, Lauren Dickson&#8217;s smile shone brightly, but there was also the merest hint of bewilderment.<\/p>\n<p>Dickson had finished 11th overall in her first Grand Tour but her performance was all the more remarkable considering how recently she began road racing. After being a runner, triathlete and duathlete she only started the sport in April 2024, the day after her 24th birthday.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d3f52bda-1549-4ead-a53b-191506f3d652-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Her contribution in support of Vollering at the Giro was huge. She was the Dutch woman&#8217;s final mountain domestique and without her efforts there is every chance Vollering would never have overhauled Anna van der Breggen (SD Worx-Protime) on that dramatic final stage.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand inline-flex items-center\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block h-[18px] w-auto shrink-0 brightness-0 invert\"><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"aspect-video w-full min-h-[200px] lg:min-h-[330px] relative overflow-hidden bg-black\" data-jwp-carousel-container>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full items-center justify-center bg-white\" data-jwp-carousel-fallback><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] max-h-12 w-auto\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;We always had the goal of coming to the Giro to win, and then after the time trial, we realised that it was going to be super hard because Anna was so strong,&#8221; Dickson told <em>Cyclingnews<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;When you start the ninth stage you feel pretty awful when you know it&#8217;s going to be such hard work. The girls were fighting so hard to get into the breakaway and it just wasn&#8217;t going. You&#8217;re really starting to wonder, &#8216;is it actually going to be possible?'&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FiPUa76ApaFucm5iwBSYBK-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;I don&#8217;t think I&#8217;ve ever had a harder day on the bike&#8217; &#8211; Lauren Dickson impresses in Giro d&#8217;Italia mountain domestique role for Demi Vollering<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7RLa9PMK26MAujQ4h4kvd7-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">The Giro d&#8217;Italia Women should be Demi Vollering&#8217;s to lose, but Grand Tour domination has rarely come naturally to her \u2013 Analysis<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6n87TL5bs3LXVeuEhf5Jn5-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Tour de Suisse Women: Femke de Vries outsprints Lauren Dickson to claim first professional victory on hard-fought stage 1<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">However, the day&#8217;s main climb proved hugely selective, Dickson emerging with a group of GC riders and the stage and overall win still at stake. For the second time in just a handful of days Dickson played a key part, keeping Vollering just about close enough to a leading trio to facilitate the winning move.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;The entire race you&#8217;re wondering, &#8216;Have we left it too late? Have we done enough?&#8217; and the radio gets too far away to hear what&#8217;s happening so when you cross the line you find out. It&#8217;s so nice and Demi was so happy.&#8221;<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-u9eWS4zimzALp7bdHww8Li\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-u9eWS4zimzALp7bdHww8Li slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"where-it-all-started-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Where it all started<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-503354e3-35d7-48c1-bcaf-2df73ecee4c3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Dickson&#8217;s athletic ability was spotted while playing tennis as a young child, and she began running in primary school. After representing Scotland in a multitude of disciplines and Great Britain in trail running at European and World Championships, she eventually gravitated to triathlon, where some friends were competing.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">At Leeds University, she trained with both British Athletics and British Tri, but while studying in Barcelona, she focused first on triathlon and then duathlon, even racing against recent Vuelta Femenina winner, Paula Blasi (UAE Team ADQ). However, after competing at the European Championships, she began to suffer from a foot injury, and a visit to see her boyfriend, Picnic-PostNL rider Sean Flynn, changed everything.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;One of his housemates rides for AG [Insurance-Soudal] and she was asking about my power numbers, because I would just go out to the big climbs and try and get the QOMs, and she saw the data I&#8217;d done for a five-minute effort.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jLwHZ9NxxJ6zr25e7LCu6g-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">La Vuelta Femenina conclusions \u2013 A new generation shines, cycling&#8217;s new Swiss Army knife, and attacking pays off<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrmbkAfixoUpWtMFECgTGJ-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Lauren Dickson suffered a broken collarbone in stage 3 crash at the Tour de Suisse<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZUYydfXCddLCnhRwv2wHSj-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;I had to dare to lose it all&#8217; \u2013 How Demi Vollering snatched the pink jersey at last gasp on an epic Giro d&#8217;Italia Women finale<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">As a result, in April 2024, Dickson and Eilidh Shaw, who is now with the UAE Development Team, accidentally entered the Open category at the JG Cycles races close to Glasgow. In a field full of men, Dickson finished 44th.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;That was such a blessing because it meant I went in a huge bunch, really high pace. In the UK it&#8217;s hard to get 80 women in a domestic race, so here I was with 80 men and Eilidh.<em>&#8220;<\/em><\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">A new bike followed, as did victories, and Dickson finished in the top 10 of every domestic race she completed that season. The standout result was second place at the National Series Lancaster GP and as a result the Scottish Continental team, Handsling-Alba Development, offered her a place. She was soon racing in Belgium. That was late July and by the end of September she&#8217;d quit her job.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;I&#8217;d used all my holidays up at work, so basically, I either didn&#8217;t race or I took the plunge and went full-time,&#8221; Dickson explained. &#8220;By this point, I started being trained by [former pro rider] Evan Oliphant from Scottish Cycling and I was trying to do three-hour rides at 5am before work or in the dark at 10pm. Experiences like those you have for life. On the road at 5 am, it&#8217;s actually quite cool but not practical for a long time. I always wanted to take a gap year and try to become a professional triathlete, so why not do it in cycling?&#8221;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-5cb2b155-68aa-4662-8813-d5e521c3aca1\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NqYkZ3QEyx7SePZABThKNa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lauren Dickson on the podium with FDJ United-SUEZ at the Giro d&#8217;Italia <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-39b78e1c-987c-4c7a-bf8e-4627076e0352\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">That commitment led to outstanding results. There were two UCI stage race podiums, second place at the 1.1 Point du Raz in France behind Blasi then, days later, the win at the Rapha Lincoln GP, arguably the UK&#8217;s most prestigious domestic race. Her first experience of WorldTour racing came at the 2025 Tour of Britain Women, the anniversary of which came on stage 7 of the Giro.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;Strava tells you what you did a year ago, and I had the recapture from the first stage of the Tour of Britain,&#8221; she explains. &#8220;I had captured it as &#8216;obliterated by the WorldTour&#8217;, and I just remember at one point the road was gridlocked, I just could not figure how to move up. Now when I&#8217;m in the bunch and I&#8217;m moving through, that&#8217;s when you start to think, &#8216;crikey, it&#8217;s crazy how much can change in a year&#8217;.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">By then, the path to a professional contract was already starting to take shape after chatting with former British road and TT champion turned rider agent, Hannah Barnes.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;She&#8217;d seen my numbers already, and then she started speaking to teams. I&#8217;m never too sure when FDJ got in contact, I just remember she asked me, &#8216;How would it feel if you were riding in an FDJ United-SUEZ jersey?&#8217; At the time, I just couldn&#8217;t believe it. I did a race and I just remember looking at the girls in the team but still you don&#8217;t think it would happen.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After a chat with the team manager, Stephen Delcourt, her future was sealed with a two-year contract.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">As she found out at the Tour of Britain last year, you can have all the athletic ability but, if you can&#8217;t handle your bike and navigate a peloton, success is hard to come by. To ensure she began the learning process as early as possible Dickson made her debut for the French team in January at the Tour Down Under.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;Because the bunch is slightly smaller, it&#8217;s a perfect place to learn,&#8221; Dickson says. &#8220;Even coming into roundabouts last year I&#8217;d have been losing 10 positions with so much energy accelerating up again, whereas now I come into a roundabout and I either hold position or I gain position and that&#8217;s not pedalling, that&#8217;s not extra watts.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Not only is her positioning now better than others who&#8217;ve been in the bunch far longer, but we saw in the Giro that her descending is also much more than adequate.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;I do descending lessons once or twice a week, and I really think it&#8217;s worth it. If you want to be the best, you need to make sure every little detail is in place. It&#8217;s skills more than just descending. I did [learn to] bunny hop last year, and in the Giro two girls crashed in front of me and I bunny hopped over the bike. Had I not been able to jump I would have crashed and not been there to help Demi, so it&#8217;s all the little things that add up.&#8221;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-5b3aa19d-a710-4109-adfb-9162bd7e13c9\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PEyii8NUFXDyyqakSFY9Ma-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Lauren Dickson descending in the Giro d&#8217;Itala Women chase group on stage 9 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-481bd65e-e523-4420-a6ad-f66944d9bdf9\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It&#8217;s this kind of dedication, focus, and desire to become a professional athlete that has brought Dickson to the top of the sport but it may never have happened at all given she suffered multiple injuries when hit by a car while training in 2019.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;I broke my neck and all my ribs,&#8221; she says. &#8220;That was a really key moment in my life. It took six months before I could even get out of bed properly and, the first time I rode my bike, the bars dropped. I just remember we were stood at the side of the road with me crying. My dad asked, &#8216;do you want to turn back or do you want to carry on?&#8217; The fact we carried on, riding through Edinburgh still crying, but I didn&#8217;t give up, and I think that is super poignant.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Dickson will need some of that resolve over the coming weeks after breaking her collarbone in a crash at the Tour de Suisse Women. However, that injury comes at the end of a string of results any rider, let alone a first-year pro, would be happy with. Her 13 top 10 finishes include two GC podium places, one of which was the WorldTour level Itzulia Women.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Dickson&#8217;s journey to the top of the sport might have been short, but her story perfectly illustrates how she makes the most of her physicality. She&#8217;s quickly become an accomplished climber and stage racer, and it may not be too long before she&#8217;s also challenging for her own Grand Tour results.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/womens-cycling\/its-crazy-how-much-can-change-in-a-year-lauren-dicksons-remarkable-rise-from-cycling-newbie-to-smashing-grand-tours-with-demi-vollering\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eJrCHdKTBj9hHGTR8wCCMa-1024-80.jpg&#8221;] 1 How moving to Europe as a 17-year-old changed my life \u2013 Luke Tuckwell&#8217;s rapid rise to the pro ranks, in his own words 2 &#8216;My year of radical experimentation&#8217; \u2013 Kate Courtney&#8217;s first US Road Nationals is one to remember, so will we see her on the tarmac more? 3 Why [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,68],"class_list":["post-2012574","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-cyclingnews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2012574","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2012574"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2012574\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2012574"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2012574"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2012574"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}