Welcome to our Rider Profiles — your chance to get to know the riders behind the kit, in their own words.

We sat down with each member of the 2026 Handsling Alba roster and let them do the talking: where they've come from, what drives them, a few things you probably didn't expect to find out and finishing off with some of their top tips for aspiring cyclists.

So get comfortable and read on to hear from the next rider in our series: Amelia Tyler...and if you want to find out more about Amelia read to the bottom to find out some recipe ideas if you were wondering what to do with the maple syrup and eggs in your fridge...

Hero Image Credit: Simon Wilkinson / SWPix.com

The Journey So Far

Tell us about your early years — where did you grow up?

I grew up in Northern Ireland in a town called Bangor.

How did you get into cycling? Who inspired or helped you along the way?

I was always a swimmer and a runner growing up. I was encouraged to take up triathlon when I was 11 years old which required me to cycle. I joined the local club and started going out with my dad on the weekends. Cycling soon became my favourite part of triathlon and when I was 18 I decided to commit to the bike.

Tell us about the teams and clubs you were part of as a youth.

I swam for Bangor swimming club, ran for North Down athletics club and cycled for North Down cycling club as a youth. I then developed my racing with Mcconveys cycling club. It was so important to be part of an encouraging environment during my youth and the community helped me find my place in sport. I made amazing friends and memories through these clubs and sport.

Tell us more about your cycling career to date — teams, clubs, and any highlights.

I was incredibly shocked when I won the green jersey for best Irish rider at the Ras Na Mban in 2022. It was my first non-club race and I really had no idea what was going on, it was just good fun!

The Tour de Feminin 2025 was a team highlight. It was incredible for Kate to win the GC and we all worked so well together. We experienced how strong we are as a team and the results that are possible.

When did you join Handsling Alba, and how did that come about?

I joined Alba in 2023 on their team camp. I had met Bob at the Ras in 2022 and he invited me on the team camp. After a great week of training and getting to know the girls I was offered to join the team.

Quick Fire Q&A

What is a fact about you that would surprise people the most? 

I was junior Irish triathlon national champion.

Do you have any favourite food combos that most other people would find weird? 

Sweet and savoury is great! Pancakes topped with scrambled eggs and maple syrup.

What is your favourite type of race? 

I like hilly and attritional races.

What is the hardest race you've ever ridden in? 

The level was so high in the Women's Tour of Britain in 2024.

Is there any kit that you'd never ride without? 

In winter I love a buff and toe warmers. I've never regretted rolling out with toe warmers!

What are your personal top 3 cycling destinations? 

Ireland is a special place for me as it's my home plus it's wild and beautiful.

I have loved my time in Scotland and although it's not got a Spanish climate, it's got a diverse landscape that offers some of the best road riding in the UK. I can leave the business of Edinburgh for the quiet rolling lanes of East Lothian in 20 minutes!

Massif Central in France is underrated. I have family there and have enjoyed incredible climbs through quiet French villages.

What's the best thing about being on Handsling Alba? 

Being able to race and perform in the best team environment. My teammates inspire me and help keep the motivation high!

Top Tips for Aspiring Cyclists

Amelia's path took her from three sports down to one — here's what she'd pass on to anyone finding their own way into cycling:

1. Join a club — it will help you meet like-minded people and build your cycling community. Ride with people that are more experienced than you; they'll help you get the most out of your training and show you new routes.
2. Try different types of racing — cycling is such a diverse sport, so find the type of racing that fits your athletic profile and that you find most fun! From gravel to track racing, there are so many exciting options.

We're super excited to follow your racing this season, Amelia — here's to 2026!

Missed our last profile? Catch up with Rider Profile: Maddie Cooper.