LYDIA BOYLAN
Lydia Boylan is the latest rider to feature in our Rider Profiles. The Dublin born rider has been competing on the Track Cycling World Cup circuit this season, focusing mainly on the Women's Team Pursuit. When not competing for Ireland on the track Lydia races on Team WNT, and is based in Nottingham in the UK.
With the sprint disciplines being her speciality, Lydia is the current holder of the outdoor National Record for 500m (37.991s) and 200m (12.92s).
Along with team mates Caroline Ryan, Lauren Creamer, Melanie Spath and Josie Knight, she has spent much of the track season based in Majorca, honing her Team Pursuit skills, with the Irish Team currently ranked as the 8th Nation in the UCI Olympic Track Ranking.
We caught up with Lydia ahead of the UCI Track Cycling World Cup in Cali (January 16 - 18).
How did you get into cycling?
Long story! The short version being I had been made redundant, had a lot of time on my hands, bought a bike.... the rest is history!
What other sports have you been involved with?
Lots! Sailing, volleyball, basketball... always a Jack of all trades, master of none!
What's your favourite cycling session?
Any one that pushes you to your limits. I love a hard hill rep session, or a bunch moto sprint drill on the track.
What do you consider your biggest achievement so far?
Making the Irish team pursuit squad, and representing Ireland at the World Cups.
What are your 2015 plans?
To always improve.
What's the best thing about cycling?
The people you meet. I've met so many fantastic lifelong friends through cycling.
We wish Lydia and the Women's Team Pursuit the best of luck in their bid to qualify for the Olympic Games in Rio 2016.