Lucy Young excels with top 15 finish in Virgin Active 974 Ride Joburg 2024 cycle challenge.

A 30-year-old dynamo from Benmore, Lucy Young has taken the cycling world by storm, recently finishing in the top 15 at the Virgin Active 974 Ride Joburg 2024 cycle challenge.

Young’s sporting journey began in her school years when her parents encouraged her to engage in sports to stay active.

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“With a family focused on their careers, sports were a way to fill my afternoons. It wasn’t until after university that I dipped my toes into park runs and mountain biking,” she said.

“Watching a friend compete in a full Ironman ignited my passion for triathlon. I quickly discovered that cycling was my strong suit, often beating my competitors by minutes.”
Commenting on her finish in the prestigious cycle challenge, Young said, “Finishing in the top 15 feels incredible. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication leading up to it. The support from the crowd and my team made it all the more special.”

This dedicated athlete has transitioned from diverse sporting backgrounds, including hockey, athletics and swimming to embracing the thrill of competitive cycling.

Her passion for cycling quickly progressed after sustaining a hip injury from running. Young turned her attention to cycling races with her boyfriend.

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“To my surprise, I was holding my own against elite cyclists. In September of last year, my hard work was recognised when I was scouted by an elite all-women racing team.

“The journey since has been incredible and my first year of racing has truly been a dream come true.”

Reflecting on her cycling highlights, Young cited some of her accomplishments with pride. “I represented South Africa at the African Continental Championships in Kenya where I won gold in the individual time trial.

“And earning three medals at the All-Africa Games in Ghana are experiences I will cherish forever. Finishing third overall and earning the Green Sprinters jersey at the Tour de Windhoek in Namibia was equally exhilarating.”

Motivation can falter during tough training sessions, but Young said she had her ways. “I visualise crossing the finish line and think about how proud my 10-year-old self would be. That keeps me going.”

However, she experiences challenges when it comes to managing work commitments alongside her rigorous training schedule but with efficient time management and strong support, she has thrived.

Young said looking to the future, she aimed to compete in more international races and represent South Africa on larger stages.

“I also hope to inspire younger riders and promote women’s cycling through initiatives that provide more opportunities for female athletes.”

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