Krista Doebel-Hicock is set to rejoin her former team, Human Powered Health (formerly Rally Cycling). Known for her prowess as a climber, Doebel-Hicock previously raced for the team between 2019 and 2021 and will be entering her tenth season as a professional. The 34-year-old Californian has expressed her desire to become an “integral part” of a team that transcends its own boundaries and inspires societal change.
Performance manager Kenny Latomme pointed out Doebel-Hicock’s unique skill set, emphasising that she’s among the few pure climbers in the peloton. He stated that her talents would be particularly valuable in the mountains, where she could either assist teammates Ruth Edwards and Barbara Malcotti or vie for her own results.
Reflecting on her past performances, Doebel-Hicock cited her victory at the Tour of the Pyrénées in 2022, fourth place in the Vuelta a Burgos General Classification and stage wins at the Tour of the Gila as career highlights. She also fondly remembered her time with Rally Cycling, where she served as a regular General Classification leader between 2019 and 2021. Her win at the Redlands Cycling Classic, specifically the Oak Glen stage in her home state, stood out as a memory she cherishes deeply, especially since the team had recently suffered the loss of teammate Kelly Catlin.
On the topic of personal growth, Doebel-Hicock revealed that she has sought to become a more complete rider, illustrated by her time trial victory in the 2022 Tour of the Gila. She feels optimistic about her return to Human Powered Health, stating that she’s motivated by the team’s belief in her ability to rebound from challenges, much like her ‘breakout’ season in 2019.
Discussing Human Powered Health’s Pillars of Performance – which include Movement, Mindset, Fuel and Recovery – Doebel-Hicock passionately articulated the interconnected nature of these elements. She used the term “symbiotic” to describe the relationship between the mind and body in cycling, emphasising that when one element is off, it impacts the whole chain, leading to less-than-optimal performance.
The California native also spoke of cycling as a catalyst for change. According to her, the sport has the power to expose our flaws, thus offering an opportunity for self-improvement that can be extended to others.
