One of the key organizations in pro women’s cycling is now fighting for its survival.
The Cyclists’ Alliance, an independent group that represents women’s professional riders, says it is facing an urgent funding problem. It could even be forced to shut down unless it raises money quickly. To help, the organization recently launched a GoFundMe campaign. TCA is now asking the cycling community to step in.
Timing is everything
International Women’s Day is on Saturday–and the group hopes that will remind people how fragile the gains in women’s sport can be.
The inspiring backstory to Alison Jackson’s national champs jersey
For nearly a decade, The Cyclists’ Alliance has operated largely behind the scenes. It has helped riders navigate the complicated and often precarious world of professional cycling. The organization reviews contracts, offers legal advice, and steps in when teams collapse or disputes arise. Those are situations that can leave athletes suddenly without pay, support, or even a clear path forward.
Alison Jackson on the importance of the TCA
National champion and TCA Rider Council member Alison Jackson remembers relying on that help early in her career.
“It is so important to have an independent advocacy group for women in professional cycling,” Jackson said in a statement. “The legal help TCA offers for reviewing athlete contracts, and advocates for riders in team disputes. It also supports athletes when a team folds are just some of the essential work of the Alliance.”
She remembers being caught in a dispute with a team in another language when she was a younger rider.
“Without TCA’s help, I would not have been able to manage or understand it,” Jackson said. “This independent advocacy group is so important to keep decision-making power in the hands of the athletes.”
Over the years, the organization has been backed by sponsors including Strava, BBB, Zwift, Cannondale, Trek, the Rapha Foundation, Liv and SRAM. That support has allowed it to offer services to riders free of charge while advocating for broader reforms in the sport.
What the TCA has accomplished
Since its founding, The Cyclists’ Alliance says it has helped nearly 100 young women move into the professional ranks through its mentorship program. It has also provided free legal advice to more than 400 riders. Along the way it has pushed for industry changes such as minimum salaries, maternity protections and improved working conditions.
The…
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