The Status of Women's Cycling: A Discussion with Iris Slappendel

In the first of a series of articles, The Outer Line has a detailed discussion with recently retired Dutch racer Iris Slappendel - the women’s road representative on the UCI’s Athlete’s Commission, and an emerging leader and spokesperson for women's cycling.  Iris reflects on her career and experiences on several different teams, shares her perspectives on the current pro peloton and suggests ideas for improving the sport.  Part II will shine an overdue light on the current culture within many women’s teams, based upon personal interviews - and sometimes shocking anecdotes - provided by a dozen current and recently-retired riders.  And Part III will provide specific recommendations to fix these cultural issues, bring change to the sport's current balance of power, and push women’s cycling in a positive new direction.

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Thanks, and best wishes for 2017!