Sarah King: Outstanding Contribution to Domestic Road Racing
Sarah King wins the 2024 Outstanding Contribution to Domestic Road Racing Award for her transformative work empowering women in cycling, fostering inclusivity and collaborative growth in the sport
The Outstanding Contribution to Domestic Road Racing Award for 2024 goes to Sarah King, manager of the London Academy, whose transformative work in women’s cycling has redefined the domestic racing scene. In what was an incredibly close decision, with equally deserving nominees in Seb Ottley and the Yomp Bonk Crew, the panel ultimately recognised Sarah’s tireless efforts to empower female riders, break down barriers, and grow the sport. This award celebrates not just her remarkable achievements but also the collaborative spirit that drives British cycling forward.
Sarah King, winner of the Outstanding Contribution to Domestic Road Racing award at the British Conti Awards 2024, is not one for grand statements. She’d rather let her work – and the riders she nurtures – do the talking. Yet, as the manager of the London Academy, King has become a quiet revolutionary, reshaping the landscape of women’s cycling with a vision that combines inclusivity, empowerment, and development.
In an era where domestic racing faces significant challenges, her achievements stand out. King’s work with the London Academy is proof that change is possible when it’s rooted in purpose.
An Almost Impossible Decision
The judging panel faced one of its toughest decisions in selecting the winner of this award. Both of Sarah’s fellow nominees, Seb Ottley and the Yomp Bonk Crew, were equally deserving. Their transformative contributions to British cycling are undeniable.
King herself is quick to highlight their work: “Obviously, I’m a big fan of how YBC are changing the way events are run and how Seb is fighting to keep races on the calendar too.”
This spirit of collaboration and shared purpose reflects the unique challenges and rewards of working in domestic road racing, where the collective effort drives the sport forward.
From Racer to Game-Changer
Sarah King’s journey in cycling is one of evolution. A former racer herself, she understands the pressures and sacrifices the sport demands. Her early experiences navigating the domestic scene gave her a deep appreciation for the barriers women face—not just on the road, but in the structures that surround the sport.
“I know how hard it can be to juggle everything—to feel like you belong in a space that hasn’t always been built with you in mind,” she says.
The Academy was always about creating opportunities for women and girls to enjoy racing in an environment where they can thrive
It was this understanding that sparked her vision for the London Academy, a team that goes beyond results to focus on holistic rider development.
“The Academy was always about creating opportunities for women and girls to enjoy racing in an environment where they can thrive. It’s about giving them the tools to progress while recognising the other demands they face in life.”
Image: Rupert Hartley
Mentoring That Makes a Difference
One of King’s most impactful initiatives is the mentoring programme she developed, which focuses on pairing riders with experienced mentors who provide guidance on everything from race tactics to managing the mental pressures of competition.
“The mentoring programme is about more than just racing; it’s about life skills. We want our riders to feel confident, informed, and supported, whether they’re on the start line or off the bike entirely,” King explains.
In 2024, she restructured the programme based on mentor and mentee feedback, adding more training and extending its reach to include riders outside the London Academy.
The mentoring has completely changed how I approach racing. I feel prepared, not just for the race, but for everything that comes with it
The success of the programme is evident, with riders reporting not only improved performance but also a greater sense of belonging and confidence. As one rider shared: “The mentoring has completely changed how I approach racing. I feel prepared, not just for the race, but for everything that comes with it.”
Workshops Driving Change
King also runs workshops aimed at empowering women across all levels of the sport. These sessions cover everything from technical bike skills to race-day preparation and mental resilience.
“The workshops are about breaking down barriers,” she explains. “So many women are put off racing because they feel they don’t know enough or aren’t confident enough. By providing a space to learn and ask questions, we’re helping them take that first step—and that’s often the hardest one.”
These workshops have become a vital part of King’s mission to grow the grassroots of women’s cycling, creating a pathway for new talent to emerge and thrive.
Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges
The London Academy’s achievements in 2024 reflect King’s vision. From hosting the largest-ever 4th Cat Women’s Race to dominating the British Team Cup finale with a 1-2 finish, the team has proven that inclusivity and excellence are not mutually exclusive.
Image: Rupert Hartley
But King’s proudest moments aren’t necessarily the ones that grab headlines.
“Introducing the combativity award at the British Team Cup seems small, but it made a difference to how riders approached the race,” she says. “It was great to get that feedback. Similarly, seeing our mentoring programme work and influencing how riders think about their seasons—it’s bigger than cycling. The skills you learn bike racing carry through into your professional life.”
Challenging the Status Quo
King isn’t shy about addressing the wider challenges facing British cycling. With the men’s domestic scene struggling to retain UCI Continental teams, she believes the women’s side has a unique opportunity to lead the way.
“With the news of there being no men’s Conti teams (yet), it’s almost as if we’re saying that domestic racing is on its knees—but the women’s side isn’t. I know it’s not perfect, and there’s more work to do, but I feel we are moving in the right direction and shouldn’t forget that.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
For King, the focus now is on sustainability and growth.
“The foundations are about continuing to do things well and consistently—that’s what is best for the riders. Having a plan and being organised so they feel secure in the team and can focus on their racing.”
I’d like to take on someone to shadow me as team manager next year—early stages of planning, but it’s important to create pathways for future leaders
Her plans include expanding the mentoring programme, collaborating with cycling clubs to support women’s sections, and inspiring more women to volunteer in the sport.
“We’ve restructured the mentoring programme based on feedback, and we’re adding more training and support. I’d also like to take on someone to shadow me as team manager next year—early stages of planning, but it’s important to create pathways for future leaders.” And, of course, there’s always room for fun, adding: “And more fun stuff—obviously!”
Image: Rupert Hartley
A Legacy in Progress
Sarah King’s impact on domestic cycling goes far beyond her results on the road. She has redefined what it means to lead, creating an environment where women can thrive both as athletes and as individuals.
It’s about building something sustainable—something that keeps growing long after I’m gone. That’s how we create real change
“It’s about building something sustainable—something that keeps growing long after I’m gone. That’s how we create real change,” she says.
In a year when much of domestic road racing has faced uncertainty, Sarah King’s work stands as a beacon of hope and progress.
“It’s great to see things moving in the right direction, and I hope we can continue to grow the scene together.”
With her vision and dedication, there’s little doubt that Sarah King is laying the foundation for a brighter future in women’s cycling—and the sport as a whole.
The Outstanding Contribution to Domestic Road Racing Award for 2024 goes to Sarah King, manager of the London Academy, whose transformative work in women’s cycling has redefined the domestic racing scene. In what was an incredibly close decision, with equally deserving nominees in Seb Ottley and the Yomp Bonk Crew, the panel ultimately recognised Sarah’s tireless efforts to empower female riders, break down barriers, and grow the sport. This award celebrates not just her remarkable achievements but also the collaborative spirit that drives British cycling forward.
See the nominees.
Sarah King, winner of the Outstanding Contribution to Domestic Road Racing award at the British Conti Awards 2024, is not one for grand statements. She’d rather let her work – and the riders she nurtures – do the talking. Yet, as the manager of the London Academy, King has become a quiet revolutionary, reshaping the landscape of women’s cycling with a vision that combines inclusivity, empowerment, and development.
In an era where domestic racing faces significant challenges, her achievements stand out. King’s work with the London Academy is proof that change is possible when it’s rooted in purpose.
An Almost Impossible Decision
The judging panel faced one of its toughest decisions in selecting the winner of this award. Both of Sarah’s fellow nominees, Seb Ottley and the Yomp Bonk Crew, were equally deserving. Their transformative contributions to British cycling are undeniable.
King herself is quick to highlight their work: “Obviously, I’m a big fan of how YBC are changing the way events are run and how Seb is fighting to keep races on the calendar too.”
This spirit of collaboration and shared purpose reflects the unique challenges and rewards of working in domestic road racing, where the collective effort drives the sport forward.
From Racer to Game-Changer
Sarah King’s journey in cycling is one of evolution. A former racer herself, she understands the pressures and sacrifices the sport demands. Her early experiences navigating the domestic scene gave her a deep appreciation for the barriers women face—not just on the road, but in the structures that surround the sport.
“I know how hard it can be to juggle everything—to feel like you belong in a space that hasn’t always been built with you in mind,” she says.
It was this understanding that sparked her vision for the London Academy, a team that goes beyond results to focus on holistic rider development.
“The Academy was always about creating opportunities for women and girls to enjoy racing in an environment where they can thrive. It’s about giving them the tools to progress while recognising the other demands they face in life.”
Mentoring That Makes a Difference
One of King’s most impactful initiatives is the mentoring programme she developed, which focuses on pairing riders with experienced mentors who provide guidance on everything from race tactics to managing the mental pressures of competition.
“The mentoring programme is about more than just racing; it’s about life skills. We want our riders to feel confident, informed, and supported, whether they’re on the start line or off the bike entirely,” King explains.
In 2024, she restructured the programme based on mentor and mentee feedback, adding more training and extending its reach to include riders outside the London Academy.
The success of the programme is evident, with riders reporting not only improved performance but also a greater sense of belonging and confidence. As one rider shared: “The mentoring has completely changed how I approach racing. I feel prepared, not just for the race, but for everything that comes with it.”
Workshops Driving Change
King also runs workshops aimed at empowering women across all levels of the sport. These sessions cover everything from technical bike skills to race-day preparation and mental resilience.
“The workshops are about breaking down barriers,” she explains. “So many women are put off racing because they feel they don’t know enough or aren’t confident enough. By providing a space to learn and ask questions, we’re helping them take that first step—and that’s often the hardest one.”
These workshops have become a vital part of King’s mission to grow the grassroots of women’s cycling, creating a pathway for new talent to emerge and thrive.
Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges
The London Academy’s achievements in 2024 reflect King’s vision. From hosting the largest-ever 4th Cat Women’s Race to dominating the British Team Cup finale with a 1-2 finish, the team has proven that inclusivity and excellence are not mutually exclusive.
But King’s proudest moments aren’t necessarily the ones that grab headlines.
“Introducing the combativity award at the British Team Cup seems small, but it made a difference to how riders approached the race,” she says. “It was great to get that feedback. Similarly, seeing our mentoring programme work and influencing how riders think about their seasons—it’s bigger than cycling. The skills you learn bike racing carry through into your professional life.”
Challenging the Status Quo
King isn’t shy about addressing the wider challenges facing British cycling. With the men’s domestic scene struggling to retain UCI Continental teams, she believes the women’s side has a unique opportunity to lead the way.
“With the news of there being no men’s Conti teams (yet), it’s almost as if we’re saying that domestic racing is on its knees—but the women’s side isn’t. I know it’s not perfect, and there’s more work to do, but I feel we are moving in the right direction and shouldn’t forget that.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
For King, the focus now is on sustainability and growth.
“The foundations are about continuing to do things well and consistently—that’s what is best for the riders. Having a plan and being organised so they feel secure in the team and can focus on their racing.”
Her plans include expanding the mentoring programme, collaborating with cycling clubs to support women’s sections, and inspiring more women to volunteer in the sport.
“We’ve restructured the mentoring programme based on feedback, and we’re adding more training and support. I’d also like to take on someone to shadow me as team manager next year—early stages of planning, but it’s important to create pathways for future leaders.” And, of course, there’s always room for fun, adding: “And more fun stuff—obviously!”
A Legacy in Progress
Sarah King’s impact on domestic cycling goes far beyond her results on the road. She has redefined what it means to lead, creating an environment where women can thrive both as athletes and as individuals.
“It’s about building something sustainable—something that keeps growing long after I’m gone. That’s how we create real change,” she says.
In a year when much of domestic road racing has faced uncertainty, Sarah King’s work stands as a beacon of hope and progress.
“It’s great to see things moving in the right direction, and I hope we can continue to grow the scene together.”
With her vision and dedication, there’s little doubt that Sarah King is laying the foundation for a brighter future in women’s cycling—and the sport as a whole.
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