News & Features
In the world of cycling time trials, few stories capture the essence of our sport quite like Hayley Simmonds'. What began as a university student's casual dip into CTT club events has evolved into a career of record-shattering achievements, continental triumphs, and now – a pivotal role as ambassador for Cycling Time Trials (CTT). We’re excited to introduce Hayley and outline the fresh energy and perspective she'll bring to our rider community.
Hayley, born in 1988, discovered time trials during her PhD at Cambridge University. Earning a Full Blue in cycling and later serving as president of the University Cycling Club and Women's Blues Committee, she quickly found her rhythm on the TT bike. Those early club rides – the ones many of us know all too well, with pre-dawn starts and post-ride coffees – laid the foundation for what was to come. Hayley not only competed at the highest levels under CTT but transitioned seamlessly to road racing, joining pro teams and racing across Europe.
Her palmarès reads like a dream for any time triallist: 17 CTT national titles, two Elite British TT championships (2015 and 2016), and a staggering three British records at 10, 25, and 50 miles. She's the first woman to dip under 50 minutes for a 25-mile TT, clocking a blistering 49:28 in 2016 that etched her name into the record books. Add to that a Commonwealth Games bronze in the time trial, European medals, a stage win at the 2017 Lotto Thüringen Ladies Tour, and a National Hill Climb victory, and you've got a rider who's redefined what's possible.
But Hayley's impact goes beyond the bike. As a regular commentator for major TV and radio cycle racing events, she brings insider knowledge and infectious enthusiasm to audiences worldwide. Her voice has narrated everything from domestic crits to Grand Tour stages, making the sport accessible and exciting for newcomers.
Bringing It Home: Hayley's Role with CTT
Now, Hayley is cycling back to her roots with CTT. As our ambassador, she'll be at the forefront of initiatives to grow and innovate our sport:
Website Content Creation: Expect a series of engaging blogs from Hayley herself – already in the works – covering everything from aero hacks and mental prep to her hat-trick of competition records in just eight days. These aren't just tips; they're stories from someone who's lived the TT life.
Virtual Racing Launch: In a post-pandemic world, Hayley's spearheading virtual racing series to keep the competition alive year-round. Whether you're a club rider or chasing PBs, these events will connect our global community without the travel.
Ambassador Duties: From event appearances to mentoring sessions, Hayley will champion inclusivity – like advocating for road bike categories to welcome more riders into TTs. She's proof that starting in the grassroots scene can lead to international acclaim, inspiring the next generation to clip in.
What makes Hayley so special for CTT? Relatability. She started where you are – in local events, building fitness one interval at a time. Her journey from Uni TTs to pro pelotons shows that time trials aren't just a discipline; they're a launchpad. As she puts it (paraphrasing her own reflections), the club scene is where the real magic happens – the camaraderie, the personal battles against the clock.
Join the Ride
We're kicking things off with Hayley's blog series – head to the first in the series to dive in. Follow her on socials for behind-the-scenes, and keep an eye out for virtual race announcements. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or lacing up for your first event, Hayley's here to remind us: every great ride starts with one pedal stroke.
Hayley currently rides for British Gravel Team Ribble Outliers and resides in Cambridge.
Related Links
Blog post #1: Finding the perfect pace