Two-time national champion Ruth Edwards, who previously raced under her maiden name Winder, is set to make a sensational return to the Women’s WorldTour in 2024, signing with Human Powered Health Cycling. A decorated American cyclist who took a two-year hiatus, Edwards has an impressive history with teams like UnitedHealthcare, Team Sunweb, and Trek-Segafredo Women.
Edwards, originally born in Yorkshire, UK, but raised in California and currently residing in Colorado, expressed her enthusiasm about the new chapter. She admitted in the announcement of her new team that she didn’t necessarily have a comeback plan, but was driven by a desire to live without regrets and a deep-seated love for the sport. Her time away from road racing saw her delve into gravel racing, including a second-place finish in the gruelling 105-mile Leadville Race Series this past August.
Kenny Latomme, the women’s team Performance Manager at Human Powered Health, emphasised the importance of retaining American culture within the team and expressed confidence in Edwards’ capabilities. He highlighted that Edwards was a strong contender even two years ago, often finishing close to 2023 Tour de France Femmes champion Demi Vollering.
Edwards’ prior achievements include a stage win and overall victory at the Tour Down Under in 2020, a stage win at the Giro Donne in 2018, and victories in the general classifications of the Czech Tour de Feminin and the Joe Martin Stage Race. Her last season before stepping away was highlighted by a dramatic win over an already celebrating Vollering in the Brabantse Pijl classic, determined by a photo finish.
The athlete also shed light on her outlook, stating that her ‘sabbatical’ gave her the chance to watch more racing and learn more about herself. She feels this will enable her to be a better athlete upon her return. Edwards spoke highly of Human Powered Health’s comprehensive approach to athlete performance, saying the team values both the physical and mental aspects, which she finds crucial.
The cycling calendar has undergone significant changes in the two years Edwards has been away. With the return of the women’s Tour de France, and other major races like the Giro d’Italia Donne and Vuelta a España gaining prominence, Edwards is keen to take on these challenges.
Away from cycling, Edwards, who lives at an altitude of 8,000 feet in Colorado, enjoys skiing in the winter and walking her dog in the summer. She’s also an amateur baker, often seen preparing banana bread. Human Powered Health conveyed their excitement at welcoming Edwards and look forward to further announcements regarding their 2024 roster.
