In an effort to nurture the next generation of female cyclists, Liv Cycling, in collaboration with the Liv AlUla Jayco Women’s Continental Team, has unveiled the Grassroots Programme. This initiative aims to provide promising young riders with the opportunity to hone their skills and potentially embark on a professional cycling career. The programme kicks off with a training camp in the Netherlands from May 9-15, where four international guest cyclists are invited to participate.
The selected riders include Gabriela López from Colombia, Lotte Borremans from Finland, Niamh Murphy from the United Kingdom, and Malou Eisen from the Netherlands. Identified for their talent and potential, these riders will receive professional coaching and support during the training camp, mirroring the experience of professional cyclists.
“We know that as athletes are developing and growing their skillset, they excel tenfold with the support of coaches and trainers,” stated Phoebe Liu, Giant Group Chief Branding Officer. “Despite how essential this is for aspiring professional cyclists, it’s often unavailable due to location and cost. It is important to Liv to lower these barriers, which is why we launched the Grassroots Programme for young women with Liv AlUla Jayco’s Continental Team.”
The training camp encompasses a range of activities, including workshops on equipment and nutrition, endurance training, and recovery rides. Additionally, the riders will undergo power profile tests to assess their physical capabilities. This comprehensive approach aims to provide the participants with a holistic understanding of the demands of professional cycling.
Eric van den Boom, General Manager of the Liv AlUla Jayco Continental Team, highlighted the programme’s global reach and its role in making women’s cycling accessible to all. “With the Grassroots Programme, we are creating a professional platform where women from all over the world get the chance to put themselves in the spotlight,” he explained. “This fits very well with our common goal of making women’s cycling accessible to everyone, regardless of their background.”
Malou Eisen, one of the selected riders, expressed her excitement about the opportunity. “I am thrilled to be part of the Grassroots Programme and grateful for the chance to showcase my skills,” she said. “It’s a fantastic initiative to support young women in pursuing their passion for cycling.”
Following the conclusion of the training camp, Liv Cycling and Liv AlUla Jayco’s Continental Team will evaluate the experiences of the riders and explore any emerging opportunities for their development and progression in the sport.
