The Cyclists’ Alliance (TCA) is an independent organisation that represents and supports female riders from around the world. Founded and led by former and current professional cyclists, TCA provides resources to help riders succeed both on and off the bike.
With a mission to ‘Strive for Fairness’, TCA advocates for equal opportunities, better working conditions, and a level playing field for women in cycling. The goal is to create a future where every rider can thrive and earn a sustainable living from the sport.
Join the movement driving real change in women’s cycling – whether as a rider or supporter, your involvement can make a real difference.
The Cyclists’ Alliance consists of a Rider’s Council and professional cyclists, all supported by the board. Together they decide on the direction of TCA.
The Cyclists’ Alliance board oversees the daily operations of the organisation and provides objective guidance to TCA staff. The board is responsible for setting the strategic direction of TCA, ensuring that all activities align with TCA’s mission and vision, and engaging with partners and governing bodies.
Grace Brown (Australia), President
Olympic Gold Medalist and World Champion cyclist
Christine O'Connell (UK), Vice President
Christine brings a wealth of expertise in strategy and corporate development, coupled with significant non-executive experience across multiple sectors. As Vice-President, she works alongside the President and TCA staff, offering strategic direction and supporting the implementation of the organisation's vision and goals.
Leah Kirchmann (CAN), Board member
Olympian and Maglia Rosa holder
"Women’s cycling is full of potential... if we stand together, we can create a safe, stable and prosperous sport.”
Lexi Brown (UK), Board member
Head of Market Research for Amazon Prime Video (Ex-adidas, Nike, Mindshare, Carat). Lexi is responsible for the partnerships of the alliance, bringing in revenue streams to fund the work that TCA does.
"The passion and drive of the team behind the scenes is incredible and the effort they put into progressing and improving the sport for riders and fans is something I want to continue to be a part of. Significant gains have been made for the top-level riders in recent years, but there is still so much opportunity to build the depth and ensure a sustainable professional sport for years to come."
Ellen van Dijk (NL), Rider Representative
Professional cyclist for Trek-Segafredo Women starting her 20th season in 2025. Ellen is three time World Champion in the time trial (2013, 2021, 2022). Ellen also excels in tough one-day classics, winning the Tour of Flanders, Dwars door Vlaanderen, and finishing third in Liège-Bastogne-Liège. Ellen returned to the peloton in 2024 after having her first child, and quickly found herself back at the top level of the sport.
“A lot is happening in women’s cycling. It's important that we, as the peloton, have a voice in the changes.”
Helen Wood (UK), Treasurer
Helen brings her financial expertise and dedication to gender equity in sports to her role as Treasurer. With a background in the bike insurance industry, where she has honed her skills in financial management and budgeting, Helen’s contributions are invaluable as TCA continues to grow and champion a fair, safe, and inclusive cycling environment for all professional women athletes.
The Rider Council meets regularly to discuss key issues and current events in womens cycling, which shape TCA objectives. If you are passionate about making a difference and interested to join, reach out to us: info@cyclistsalliance.org.
Ally Wollaston (NZ)
"As well as cycling, I am a third year law student at the University of Waikato. I am very passionate about women's cycling, as well as the area of law. I am determined to leave the sport in a better place than it was once found, and to be a driving factor of positive and sustainable change, which essentially is what The Cyclists' Alliance is setting out to do."
Alison Jackson (CAN)
Mireia Benito (ES)
Heidi Franz (USA)
Amber Pate (AUS)
Megan Jastrab (USA)
Ariane Luthi (SUI)
Multiple winner of some of the most gruelling mountain bike stage races in the world.
“I felt pretty lonely at that front, I thought it would be amazing if there was a union that could have my back”
Haley Smith (CAN)
Olympian & Gravel racer for Trek Driftless team
“There are extra challenges for non-European riders and I want to use this experience to help grow the discipline into a more global and equitable sport”
Luciana Roland (ARG)
Agua Marina Espinola (PRY)
First Paraguayan rider qualified for the Olympic Games Tokyo 2021.
“I would like to be the voice of the small countries and riders who like me, are fighting to be part of the world of professional cycling.”
Marieke De Groot (NL)
Marieke previously raced for Health Mate - Cyclelive & Doltcini - Van Eyck Sport and is still actively racing and. supporting developing talent.
“I want to add my voice to represent the level below the World Tour teams (Continental & ambitious club teams). In my opinion these are a very important level for developing young talent”
Hannah Ludwig (GER)
TCA Staff manage the daily operations of the organisation under supervision from the Board of Directors. They are the primary points of contact for TCA rider members, supporters, and partners.
Legal and Ethics: Judith Van Maanen and Cassie Nelson.
Program manager: Deena Blacking
TCAMP Mentor program: Roos Hoogeboom
Communications: Leah Kirchmann
Membership: Ella Harris
For all queries, you can email info@cyclistsalliance.org and we will ensure that your query reaches the right expert.
Advisory board
| Uni World Players Association | Sporting Union advisors |
| EU Athletes | Athletes Rights advisors |
| Marianne Vos | Professional Cyclist |
If you want to share any insights please contact a member of the board: info@cyclistsalliance.org