Kiera Byland

Kiera Byland
Kiera Byland
Kiera Byland is part of Cycling UK's 100 Women in Cycling 2019 list for being a multiple Special Olympics gold medallist who is now helping other young riders to enjoy their bikes.

Kiera Byland, or ‘KB’ as she’s also known, is the very essence of inspiration. At the age of just 21, Kiera – who has a learning disability – is a triple gold medallist for Team GB at the Special Olympics, and a double World and European champion at INAS (International Sports Federation for Persons with Intellectual Disability).

She’s also taken her passion for pedalling in a different direction by helping other young riders with their cycling. She is a level 2 BC cycle coach and she teaches at her local disability hub. She also teaches early years children how to learn the fundamentals of cycling on balance bikes.

Kiera said: “When I’m on a bike I can be me. I have made friends through sport, sport has given me a chance to shine and it saved me from a dark place. 

“I’ve also learnt that cycling is something I’m good at. And I’ve learnt that I can share my passion for cycling through coaching.”

I have made friends through sport, sport has given me a chance to shine

Kiera Byland

One of Kiera's nominators for 100 Women in Cycling was Cycling UK’s Christina Bengston, who said: “Kiera is a truly inspirational Special Olympics cyclist. 

“Although she has autism and dyspraxia, cycling has had a huge effect in increasing her confidence. Now she uses that experience to speak to inspire others and help them to find their purpose, too.”

What is 100 Women in Cycling?

Cycling UK’s 100 Women in Cycling is an annual list celebrating inspirational women who are encouraging others to cycle.