Shayna Powless

“Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing.” – Mohammad Ali

Nickname: Shay

D.O.B.: 01/08/1994

Birth city and state: Eglin Air Force Base, FL

Current City: Jacksonville, FL

Height: 5’8”

Specialty: All-rounder

Previous sports: Running, Triathlons

Years racing: 7

Colleges attended: University of California Los Angeles

Degree: Psychology

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaynapowless/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shayna.powless.3

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShaynaPowless

Originally from Sacramento, Shayna started out as a competitive runner and triathlete from elementary through high school. In 2012, her senior year of high school, she decided to switch her focus from competing in multiple sports (track/cross country, triathlons, and cycling), to focusing solely on cross-country mountain biking. Through her four years of college, she competed in both road and mountain bike racing with the UCLA cycling team. She also raced with the BMC MTB Development team from 2012-2014 and the Liv Co-Factory MTB team from 2015-2016. The past couple years, Shayna switched her focus to road racing and gained valuable experience from racing in the pro peloton. She plans to continue making road racing her primary focus in the upcoming years and is very excited to be joining Twenty20 for another year, a team she knows will help her accomplish her goals.

Outside of cycling, Shayna enjoys spending time with her friends and family, which often includes road trips and various outdoor adventures. She also enjoys yoga, beach trips, and watching movies. Additionally, Shayna is passionate about mentoring and inspiring other women and young kids to stay healthy and active through biking. She even hosts community group ride events on Native American reservations a few times per year.

Career Highlights

4^th 2018 Stage 1 Redlands Classic
2017 San Dimas Stage Race – Best Young Rider
8^th 2016 Mont Sainte Anne U23 World Cup
8^th 2015 USA Short Track XC Nationals

1^st 2013 USA U23 XC MTB Nationals

2018

14^th USAC Criterium National Championships
4^th Stage 1 Redlands Classic
13th GC Tour of the Gila
10^th GC Joe Martin Stage Race
6^th GC Chico Stage Race

2017

8^th Tour of Murrieta
8^th San Dimas Stage Race
BYR San Dimas Stage Race
12^th Fontana U.S. Cup XC
5^th Fontana U.S. Cup STXC
43^rd Amgen TOC

What inspired you to become a bike racer?

My dad was a triathlete and cyclist who inspired my brother and I to start racing from a young age. My brother and I also inspired each other since there was always competition between us. Additionally, I’ve tried just about every sport and cycling was always the one I enjoyed the most.

Who is an inspiration to you in your life, both on and off the bike?

My parents and brother, who have gone far in athletics and life in general. We always inspire/encourage each other and lift each other up.

Favorite meal when training?

Chicken with pesto, mozzarella, and tomatoes with sweet potatoes.

The best thing about being a bike racer is?

I love how racing allows me to push my limits and go harder than I ever knew I could go. I also love how it allows me to meet new people and explore places I’ve never been before.

What is your biggest accomplishment on the bike?

My biggest accomplishment was winning the U23 Mountain Bike National Championship in 2013. It was my first year as a U23 and my first year racing professionally so I didn’t really know what to expect going in to the race. Luckily, the course suited my technical abilities and I came away with the win, defeating the defending National Champ. The feeling was unreal!

Favorite place you’ve raced your bike and why?

I absolutely love racing in Missoula, Montana. There are mountains and trails everywhere, there is a river where you can surf and wakeboard, and the food and coffee is amazing. My other favorite place is Lake Tahoe because it is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been.

Favorite cross training or off season activity?

Running, hiking, and yoga

Best tip for a new bike racer?

Keeping it fun is most important. If it’s not fun there’s no point! Also, stay positive when it gets tough, and have an open mind that will allow you to notice and learn from mistakes.

What are one of two things that you do daily that are the key to your success?

Hydration for me is so important. I always make sure I have water with me wherever I go so I can drink throughout the day. I also need lots of sleep, which is crucial for my body function properly both on and off the bike.

If you weren’t bike racing what would you be?

If I wasn’t racing I’d be in a physical therapy graduate school program since my dream is to one day become a physical therapist.

If you could spend 10 days anywhere, where would it be?

I’d spend 10 days in BC, Canada exploring towns such as Vancouver and Whistler since I’ve heard it’s absolutely beautiful there and the riding is amazing.

Tell us something about yourself that people may not know

I used to be really into horseback riding and even competed in a dressage show once!

Favorite things to do off the bike:

1. Hang out with family and friends

2. Yoga

3. Hiking

4. Running

5. Paddle boarding

Top 5 warm-up/pre-race songs on your iPod:

I usually just listen to Pandora radio on my phone. Typically, I’ll play hip-hop, electronic, pop, and alternative.

Favorite things to eat.

1. Curry chicken