Australian cyclist Jess Allen has recently shared that she’s closing a significant chapter in her life on Instagram: her time racing in the professional peloton. Scheduled to bow out at the end of 2023, this move comes after a noteworthy decade-long career that has been as rewarding as it has been challenging. Allen speaks of the profound impact cycling has had on her, stating that the sport has been an intrinsic part of her life since she was just nine years old.
The emotional complexities of the sport aren’t lost on Allen. She describes her cycling journey as a roller coaster full of highs and lows. Nonetheless, the camaraderie, the learning curve, and the cross-cultural experiences have made it worthwhile. More than a sport, cycling has been a medium for Allen to forge lasting friendships across the globe, something she prizes enormously.
Allen attributes much of her success to her support system. A heartfelt thank you goes out to her family, friends, and coaches, who’ve been steadfast pillars throughout her journey. Notably, Allen also highlights her indebtedness to the Perth cycling community, including Glen Parker Cycles, Star Physio WA, and Midland Cycle Club.
A significant portion of her career—eight years, to be precise—has been spent with the GreenEdge Cycling team. Allen emphasises her good fortune in being part of such a “professional team with a special culture and legacy.” Managed by Gerry Ryan, the team has become almost a second family for her. Her first experience of a UCI team came back in 2013 on the Vienne Futuroscope team that is now known as FDJ-Suez. From there, Allen took opportunities in Australian national teams for the most part until being picked up by the GreenEdge led Orica-AIS in 2016. Jess Allen has 1 UCI race win – the Oceania Continental Championships in 2014.
But for fans, it’s not time to say goodbye just yet. Allen confirms that the current season still holds some excitement. She is slated to participate in the Simac Ladies Tour, Tres Valli, and a race in China. While the athlete concedes she’s processing a spectrum of emotions, she’s keen on savouring these last moments on the racing circuit.
As one chapter closes, another awaits. Jess Allen leaves the sport, not with a sense of finality, but with anticipation for new challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. It’s a poignant but hopeful farewell, evoking a mixture of nostalgia and excitement for what the future might hold.
