LESSONS FROM KRISTEN FAULKNER

Over the next month, we're going to be posting a small series of journals, in person events and content around women's cycling.

With the launch of our women's team, and the upcoming visit from USA cycling spokesperson Mari Holden, we wanted kick off our Women's Cycling Series with a recap of a recent evening spent with 2x Olympic Gold Medalist and inspirational figure Kristen Faulkner. During the inspiring talk with USA Cycling Spokesperson and World TT Champion Mari Holden, she shared some of the key lessons and personal rules that have carried her to the very top of the professional cycling world.

It was inspiring to hear from Kristen about her journey and the incredible dedication that took her from a desk job working in Finance to eventually winning multiple Olympic medals. The media often oversimplifies such achievements, but behind her success was a deep, inner drive and relentless determination. Speaking to an intimate audience in a beautiful Manhattan apartment, Kristine shared how her journey began with a simple desire to stay physically active and competitive.

She discovered cycling as a sport that challenged her physically and mentally—demanding resilience and the ability to embrace the unknown. Fortunately, she found herself in the heart of New York City’s vibrant CRCA racing scene, which welcomed her and taught her what it took to thrive. From clipping into pedals for the first time to learning to use padded shorts, the local cycling community played a crucial role in her development and eventual success.

One question stayed with her throughout her journey: “How far can I take it?” Kristen was determined to find out. She also found inspiration in Evelyn Stevens—another American cyclist who made the leap from local NYC racing to the Olympics. Evelyn became a role model and mirror for Kristen, proving that such a path was possible and motivating her to chase her own Olympic dreams.

Among the many highlights of her talk, what stood out most was Kristen’s tactical insight. During her preparation for the road race in Paris, she knew her chances of winning were slim. As the underdog, racing with only one teammate — Chloe Dygert — she focused on proper nutrition, hydration, and mental strength. She refused to be intimidated by the bigger names in the race. We discussed the pivotal moment when, with 3 kilometers to go, she launched an attack and never looked back. She shared two personal rules:

Never celebrate before crossing the finish line.

Never look back during an attack—if looking back increased the risk of being caught, it wasn’t worth it.

When someone asked why she didn’t celebrate as she crossed the line, she explained that without race radios, she had no idea if her lead was 10 seconds or one minute. So she pushed through to the very end.

Interestingly, the road race wasn’t even her main focus—her primary goal in Paris was the Team Pursuit on the track. With high expectations placed on her, the road race presented an unexpected opportunity. To seize it, she focused entirely on the task at hand. Immediately after the road race, she spun out her legs and began preparing for the velodrome competition two days later.

Coming home with two Olympic gold medals was more than a dream come true for Kristen. But none of it would have been possible without the support of USA Cycling. The federation played a crucial role in her development, and without their backing, America might not have been able to celebrate her victories. The USA Cycling Foundation is currently seeking donations to help more riders like Kristen achieve their potential. Guided by legendary figures like Mari Holden and many others, the foundation continues to be a lifeline for rising athletes.

Click here to join our afternoon Women's ride with Olympian and Time Trial World Champion Mari Holden, taking part on May 14th, at 4:00pm.