Paris, August 2024 – Kristen Faulkner a 31-year-old cyclist from Homer, Alaska, has made history by ending a 40-year American gold medal drought in the women’s cycling road race at the Paris Olympics. Faulkner’s victory marks the first win for the United States in this event since Connie Carpenter’s triumph at the 1984 Los Angeles Games.
Faulkner’s journey to Olympic gold is nothing short of remarkable. A former rower and hiker, she only took up cycling six years ago when she moved to New York for a role as a venture capitalist. Seeking a new outdoor challenge, she found her passion for cycling and rapidly ascended the ranks of the sport.
Originally, Faulkner was not scheduled to compete at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She was called up to Team USA as a late replacement after Taylor Knibb decided to focus on other events. Faulkner seized the opportunity with both hands, delivering a stellar performance to claim the gold medal.
In an interview, Faulkner revealed her strategic approach to the race. “I had to win solo to beat the other riders because they are faster on the finish line,” she explained. “I was guessing they would not work super well together, because there were four of us and only three medals.”
Faulkner’s transition from finance to full-time cycling was swift. By 2020, she was racing with Team TIBCO-Silicon Valley Bank, the longest-running professional women’s cycling team in North America at the time. In 2021, she decided to quit her job as a venture capitalist to fully commit to her sport.
Currently, Faulkner rides for the American Continental Women’s Team EF-Oatly-Cannondale. She thrives on the competitiveness and camaraderie of the sport, engaging in rigorous daily training rides of about 50 miles. Her background in finance has also played a crucial role in her success.
“A lot of what I learned in finance is how to take calculated risks. In a race, I take that mindset with me,” she said.
Kristen Faulkner’s Olympic victory is a testament to her determination, strategic thinking, and adaptability. Her journey from venture capitalist to Olympic gold medallist serves as an inspiration to athletes and professionals alike, demonstrating the power of pursuing one’s passion and embracing new challenges.
