Meet Priscilla: A dedicated cyclist whose journey began with a pivotal decision to leave behind a lifestyle that no longer served her and embrace the challenge and freedom of cycling. With a passion for community and inclusivity, Priscilla co-founded the Incycle Mamis, a women’s cycling team in Southern California, to create a space where women riders could find support, connection, and empowerment. Her story is one of transformation, determination, and the belief in the power of community to uplift and inspire.

1) Tell us about yourself. What’s your background and how did you get into cycling?

I’ve spent most of my professional life in sales, but my true passion has always been cycling. What started as a personal interest evolved into a fulfilling career. I found my dream job in the cycling industry, where I’ve been able to merge my enthusiasm for the sport with my professional skills. Currently, I serve as the Global Sales Manager at Velocio Apparel, which was acquired by SRAM LLC. This role allows me to immerse myself in the cycling world every day, and I couldn’t be happier with where my career has led me.

I was introduced to cycling at the age of 20, a pivotal moment that significantly shifted the direction of my life. Before cycling, I was caught up in the party scene, which wasn’t contributing positively to my life. Embracing cycling and becoming part of its community provided me with a new sense of purpose and direction. The support and camaraderie from the cycling community and the family I had around me have been invaluable, and it’s a journey that has shaped both my personal and professional life.

2) What does “endure” mean to you personally, and how does it reflect in your cycling journey?

To me, “endure” is a guiding principle in my life. It embodies resilience, perseverance, and the ability to push through challenges despite the odds. Nothing has come easily for me; my life journey has been characterized by hard work, determination, and, of course, the scrappiness I mentioned. I often joke that my scrappiness is a trait I inherited from my mom, and I think she’d agree!

In cycling, it's not just about physical stamina but also about your mental game. It reflects in every long ride, every tough climb, and every race where pushing through the pain and fatigue is part of the process. The quote, “Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass but about learning to dance in the rain,” sums up my approach. I’ve faced numerous obstacles in my cycling journey and life, but each challenge has made the victories and success that much sweeter.

I suppose that's the long-winded answer. Endure, for me, is about embracing those challenges and using them as fuel to drive forward, both on and off the bike. #fireInTheBelly 🔥

3) What challenges have you faced in your cycling career, and how have you overcome them?

Cycling, like life, is full of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles I faced was navigating the intense and often brutal nature of the sport itself. This was NOTHING like any sport I had ever done before. From grueling training sessions to competitive races that tested both my physical and mental limits, there were many moments when it felt like the obstacles were impossible! Intrusive thoughts of "you're not good enough. Partying is way easier" crossed my mind often.

Fortunately, I was surrounded by a solid support network, including Incycle and SC Velo. If you are from SoCal, tu sabes 😉. This community not only believed in my potential but also provided the guidance and encouragement I needed to push through tough times. Their support was instrumental in helping me navigate the pointy elbows of the sport.

What I’ve learned from these experiences is that facing and overcoming challenges is a crucial part of growth. Each obstacle has taught me to be tough, persistent, and, with the support of a strong community, I’ve been able to turn these challenges into opportunities. This mindset has not only helped me advance in my cycling career but has also shaped my approach to life in general.

4) What role does community play in your cycling experience, and how has it influenced you?

For me, it all started with community. It's been the cornerstone of my cycling experience, playing a pivotal role in both my personal growth and professional journey. The cycling community, including Incycle and SC Velo, has been instrumental in shaping my approach to the sport, even to this day.

Being part of these communities has provided me with invaluable support, motivation, and camaraderie. Whether it’s through shared rides, training tips, or simply moral encouragement, the sense of belonging and mutual support has made the journey not only more enjoyable but also more fulfilling.

The friendships and connections I’ve built within these communities, both on and off the bike, have been a source of inspiration and have pushed me to strive for greater achievements. They’ve also offered a safety net during challenging times, helping me navigate the ups and downs of competitive cycling and, yes, you guessed it—life.

The cycling community has influenced me by reinforcing the idea that cycling is not just an individual pursuit but a synergistic experience.

5) Tell us about the Incycle Mamis and what made you start it.

The Incycle Mamis is a women’s cycling team dedicated to expanding and nurturing the women’s cycling community in Southern California. Shelby Reynolds and I started the team with a clear mission: to create a supportive and inclusive environment where women can connect, grow, and thrive in the sport of cycling.

Our focus is on providing various opportunities for women to engage with cycling, whether through organized shop rides, events, or women-specific gatherings. Building strong relationships within our community is essential, and we aim to fill the gaps that exist in support and representation for women in cycling.

Additionally, for those interested in exploring racing, the Incycle Mamis offers guidance and support to help newcomers learn the ropes. Our team is all about fostering a sense of belonging and empowering women at every level of their cycling journey.

6) How do you incorporate your personal style or fashion into your cycling gear?

Incorporating my personal style into my cycling gear is something I take great pride in. I actually have more cycling kits, shoes, helmets, and glasses than casual clothes, which probably says a lot about my passion for the sport! Working at Velocio Apparel has definitely helped me stay on top of my fashion game, as the brand’s commitment to style, performance, and sustainability aligns perfectly with my own MO. 💃

After all, in cycling, as in life, I believe that looking good can be just as important as feeling good.