As the UCI Road World Championships head to Africa, Ashleigh reflects on how the bike shaped her journey and her purpose.
South Africa (25 September 2025) – South African cycling has been making headlines recently, with names like Alan Hatherly and triathlete Jamie Riddle showing the world what local athletes are capable of. Now, another name you might want to add to this growing spotlight is Ashleigh Moolman Pasio, one of South Africa’s most celebrated riders. Ashleigh recently opened up about her journey in the build-up to one of the defining moments of her career. The first-ever UCI Road World Championships on African soil, set for 27 September in Kigali, Rwanda.
For Ashleigh, this moment carries deep meaning. She will line up as the current African Continental Champion, but behind that title is a journey that began far from the professional pack. Sixteen years ago, she was a chemical engineering student at Stellenbosch University, more comfortable in lecture halls than on two wheels. What began as a hobby slowly grew into something transformative.
Cycling became her greatest teacher. With every ride, she discovered more than just strength in her legs, but also freedom and a growing sense of identity. The shy student she once was evolved into a confident athlete ready to take on the world.
One of the most powerful themes in her story is confidence. Ashleigh points out that for many women, the biggest barrier is not talent but belief in themselves, or in this case, unbelief. In cultures across the globe and particularly in parts of Africa, young women are often steered toward traditional roles, while men are encouraged to take risks and chase dreams. She admits she once doubted her ability to become a professional athlete, until her husband Carl encouraged her to take cycling seriously. His belief helped her find her own.
Today, Ashleigh is not only a world-class rider but also a leader in a male-dominated sport. For her, the bicycle is an engine of empowerment. “Confidence changes everything.” It gives women the courage to dream bigger, to rewrite their futures, and to claim their space in the world.
She is sharing her journey and her story, so be sure to follow her for all the inside information.
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