The Cyclists’ Alliance announces ‘TCAMP’ a New, Innovative Mentor Program for Professional Female Cyclists
Cannondale, Liv Cycling, Specialized, SRAM and Trek join TCA as ‘Podium Partners’
Rotterdam, 17 May 2021
The Cyclists’ Alliance (TCA), the independent union for professional female cyclists, has joined forces with Cannondale, Liv Cycling, Specialized, SRAM and Trek to launch TCAMP, a groundbreaking Mentor Program, focused on three stages of professional cyclists’ careers with the ultimate goal of creating long-term change beyond the bike.
The TCA Mentor Programme (TCAMP) connects elite riders directly with some of the most advanced businesses in the sport and fellow professional cyclists, through a structured mentoring programme designed to help them effectively enter, flourish and progress as industry employees and leaders upon retirement from professional cycling.
The program has three key pillars:
- Pre-career - junior, U23 and out-of-contract cyclists will benefit from practical knowledge such as cycling CV tools, advice on how to approach teams and relocation factsheets - all developed in partnership with the partners - with the aim of democratizing entry into and diversifying the professional peloton.
- Mid-career - inexperienced riders (mentees) will be partnered with established riders (mentors) for a structured 12-month, mentoring program, crafted in collaboration with the 'podium partner' companies and external experts (including, but not limited to: Mindroom, Paratam, BespokeM) in order to learn how to better navigate challenges, develop leadership skills and share & retain knowledge.
- Post-career - retired cyclists (within two years of leaving the sport) will benefit from access to formal internships and in-house experience at each of the Podium Partners. The pioneering program will provide retired cyclists with incredible opportunities and practical skills to ready them for life beyond the bike - whilst providing the brands with access to a pool of expert, high-performing talent.
“To drive lasting change in the cycling industry and make it a more equitable place for women, we need more women in decision making positions. Too many professional cyclists want to take that step, but leave the cycling family due to not being effectively equipped or enabled. We want to change that.
Through our Podium Partners we are able to offer access to industry-leading knowledge and open the door to opportunities; to empower our high-performing professional athletes and to give those brands the benefit of their immense knowledge in a mutually-beneficial arrangement that delivers long-term impact. We are especially thankful to Cannondale, Liv Cycling, Specialized, SRAM and Trek for their vision, commitment and support in joining us on this journey.”
Gracie Elvin, Cofounder of the TCA and former professional cyclist, explains the goal of TCAMP
“I know we like to think we're blazing our own trail, but quite often someone has walked the path in front of us. When they turn around to guide us, it helps to make the path wider so more people can follow. This, coupled with the direct link to companies in cycling will make the new TCAMP a truly invaluable program for all female cyclists.”
Lauretta Hanson, professional cyclist with Trek-Segafredo, explains the importance of mentoring:
“Opening a pathway for talented women with a passion for cycling is crucial for building greater gender equity within positions of influence,” said Kim Price, Leader of People and Culture at Specialized. “The TCAMP program is exactly the type of long-term initiative to create more access points across the cycling industry.”
“It is important to support women at every stage of their journey--from an on-ramp into the pro ranks, to an exit ramp that keeps them engaged with and working in the industry,” said Brook Hopper, Liv Cycling global marketing manager. “The TCA Mentor Programme will be an incredible resource to make this possible.”
“SRAM is excited to join this initiative which aligns with our goal of getting more women to the starting line”, said Eileen Mulry, Vice President, Human Resources at SRAM. “We look forward to partnering with The Cyclists Alliance in helping ensure women cyclists succeed in their professional racing careers and are prepared for their broader careers beyond racing.”
The TCA has opened its applications for TCAMP for cyclists who would like to join as either a mentee or a mentor, depending on their goals and stage of their career.
The TCA has ambitions to grow TCAMP and its partner network. For any businesses wishing to partner TCAMP in 2023, please contact TCA. For more information, please email info@cyclistsalliance.org