Throwback Thursday: Honoring Juneteenth and the Black Women Who Paved the Way on Two Wheels
As we celebrate Juneteenth—the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States—we also honor the strength, resilience, and legacy of Black women who’ve shaped cycling culture, past and present. While mountain biking itself may not yet have a long documented history of Black female pioneers, Black women have been making bold moves on bikes for nearly a century, often rewriting history with each pedal stroke.
One of the most powerful examples dates back to 1928, when five courageous women—Marylou Jackson, Velma Jackson, Ethyl Miller, Leolya Nelson, and Constance White—rode 250 miles from Harlem to Washington, D.C. Their ride was not only a physical feat, but a revolutionary act at a time when Black women were rarely seen, let alone supported, in outdoor spaces. Today, their legacy inspires countless women to claim their space on the trail, the road, and everywhere in between.
Fast forward to today, and we’re witnessing a new generation of Black women cyclists shifting the narrative and expanding access.
Ayesha McGowan, the first African American woman to become a professional road cyclist, is a fierce advocate for representation and inclusion in racing.
Keshia Roberson, founder of Major Knox Adventures, continues the legacy of the 1928 ride with long-distance tours that elevate Black cycling history.
Kaya Cattouse, Belize’s first female pro cyclist, shows up strong in international competition—and brings a powerful voice to the table as a proud Afro-Caribbean woman.
Taneika, a gravel rider originally from Jamaica and now in Virginia, is building community one off-road adventure at a time, helping more women of color discover the joy of dirt riding.
We also recognize the work of Black-led cycling movements like the Black History Bike Ride and advocates like Teresa Baker and Faith Briggs, who champion equity in the outdoors—reminding us that Black history is outdoor history.
At MTB Girls Magazine, we believe the trails should be welcoming, safe, and empowering for everyone. This Juneteenth, we reflect on the road behind us, celebrate the women riding beside us, and commit to building a future where every girl and woman feels she belongs in the dirt.
Here’s to the ride—and to those who rode before us.
