Emma Grant

My story goes that cycling found me through the UK Sport Talent ID programme Girls4Gold. All I wanted to do from a young age was be a pro runner, and without a competitive outlet, I was a nightmare amongst three other competitive siblings; sport was the path! My first-ever race was a little scarring, bolting me over my bars and knocking out my front teeth. My dad popped them in some milk to preserve them for the duration of the ambulance ride. Undeterred, I persevered on a wild ten-year journey riding out the highs and lows as a roadie.

After two major surgeries to repair bilateral iliac artery endofibrosis and a struggle to make a comeback, I tried really hard to quit cycling and get a real job. However, I still felt my best days as an athlete were still ahead of me, and the allure of gravel was too strong; so began a new chapter which has evolved into the world of ultra cycling.

Going from being self coached to teaming up with Tim Cusick was the start of rebuilding much deeper fitness. Forever intrigued by what uniquely makes an athlete tick, coupled with Tim’s passion for coaching, it was only a matter of time before I wanted to put on my own coaching hat.

It felt like a natural choice to go off and study at the sports renowned University of Bath, where I graduated with a BSC Sports Performance 1st Class Honors. I continued to build my knowledge base completing the IOC International Olympic Committee Diploma in Sports Nutrition and Yoga for Athletes Teacher training. 

Outside of cycling, I love anything outdoorsy and going on spontaneous adventures; being in the bush at home in NZ is my happy place. Having the kitchen all to myself and making up recipes is also a treat!