Leigh Donovan-World Champion, Hall of Famer, Absolute legend

Welcome to today’s podcast- we’re catching up with World Champion, Hall of Famer, Absolute legend, Leigh Donovan. Leigh isn’t just one of the most accomplished mountain bikers of all time—she’s one of the most influential figures the sport has ever seen.

In 1995, she pulled off the Triple Crown, winning the national slalom championship, national downhill championship, and the world championship—an accomplishment that has never been repeated. Over her career, she racked up nine U.S. National Championships, proving her dominance across multiple disciplines.

Leigh wasn’t just the rider to beat—she was the rider everyone wanted to be around. Her energy, her kindness, and her passion for the sport made her a legend both on and off the bike. She wasn’t just out there winning races; she was lifting others up, from her competitors to weekend warriors just getting into the sport.

She is dedicated to working with charities and giving back to the community, always finding ways to help others, whether it was through mentorship, advocacy, or just leading by example.

And, in a true testament to her character, she remains the only woman to ever win the Richard Long Sportsmanship Award from NORBA—a recognition of not just her talent, but the kind of person she is.

Today we chat about her career, highs, lows, rapid-fire questions, advice to young riders, and more! Check it!

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What IS the Women's Mountain Bike Network? We aim to inspire and empower women* of all ages to get out and ride! Our mission is to deliver mountain bike content, news, and resources for women from a woman’s perspective! A one-stop shop for folx looking for info on bikes, gear, & community. Our goal is to shift the male-dominated narrative in MTB content.