Ayesha McGowan cyclist

Ayesha McGowan

Ayesha McGowan has the goal of becoming the first African-American female pro road cyclist. Ayesha started riding bikes as a commuter while attending Berklee College of Music in Boston. Since then, she has submerged herself into the world of cycling. While living Brooklyn, NY, she worked as a preschool music teacher, a Branding Administrator for WE Bike NYC, an organization geared towards getting more women on bicycles, and Director of Programs for InTandem, an organization that provides access to bike rides for people with disabilities.

In 2014 she discovered the world of bike racing. She won her first state championship in her third race. It didn’t take long for her to notice that she was one of very few females of African-American descent on the scene. In fact, she discovered that there had not been a single African-American pro road cyclist, ever. She has taken it upon herself to become the first.

As an advocate by example, she has dedicated herself to encouraging and inspiring other women of color to follow their dreams, whatever they may be. Through various initiatives that focus on representation like her ‘Do Better Together’ virtual ride series, Ayesha has inspired countless people to ride more, ride together, and to challenge themselves and their views of how they define the word “cyclist”.

Ayesha is supported by Cannondale, ASSOS, Lake Cycling and SRAM, and has been featured in VICE Sports, Outside Magazine, Bicycling Magazine, and BBC World.

Visit Ayesha McGowan’s website: http://www.aquickbrownfox.com/

Featured Articles

Ayesha Wants To Be The First | Outside Magazine

Ayesha McGowan Could Be The First African-American Women To Go Pro | Bicycling Magazine

Ayesha McGowan Plans To Be The First African-American Female Pro Cyclist | ESPN

Can Ayesha McGowan Become America’s First Black Woman Pro Cyclist? | Vice Sports

 

Sports:
  • Road Cycling
Level:
  • Elite
Status:
  • Current CTS Athlete