Cynisca /si’niss’kuh/ was a Spartan chariot racehorse trainer who became the first female Olympic champion in 396 & 392 BC. She broke barriers of entering into the male-only Olympics, just as women today are charging forward in the sport of cycling. In a time when athletics were an exclusively male pursuit, Cynisca proved women can excel in the Olympic Games as well and achieve legendary status.
Her triumph in Greek athletics became a symbol of inspiration for women of future generations, and her legacy is still remembered today.
Cynisca Cycling is a non-profit organization dedicated to women in sports. The team, its partners, sponsors and supporters are making a long-term investment in the future of women’s cycling. Our mission is to help a diverse, young group of athletes and women in the cycling industry reach the top tiers of cycling both on and off the bike.