A Dynamic Addition for 2025 and 2026 seasons.
Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY24 is proud to announce the signing of Rylee McMullen (NZL), a dynamic and accomplished cyclist from New Zealand, for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. With a career spanning multiple disciplines and continents, Rylee brings a wealth of experience and a track record of success to the team as she sets her sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
McMullen’s Excitement About Joining the Team
“I’m really excited to be joining Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY24. This team has shown that they are capable of winning the biggest races in North America, and I’m stoked to continue to develop alongside such strong teammates,” commented McMullen. “With the team going into their 20th year, I know I’m signing with the best team in North America that has a solid foundation and a proven track record in developing world-class athletes. I’m happy to be part of a program that values a mixed calendar across road and track.”
Strategic Addition to the Teåam: Nicola Cranmer’s Insight
Nicola Cranmer, Founder and General Manager of Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY24, added:
While our team is largely focused on developing American athletes, bringing Rylee on board is a strategic addition as we expand our focus to include more track cycling. Rylee brings valuable international experience and a strong work ethic that will help elevate the entire team. She’s a great teammate with a fantastic personality and isn’t afraid to put in the hard work required to succeed. Rylee will also work closely with the New Zealand National Team program, which aligns perfectly with our goals of supporting athletes at the highest level.
Rylee’s Journey to Cycling and Early Success
Growing up on New Zealand’s scenic North Island in an athletic family, Rylee competed in sports like water polo and swimming before discovering cycling at age 20. Her passion for the sport began on a whim when she entered a half Ironman during university and posted the fastest bike split, sparking her decision to focus entirely on cycling.
From New Zealand to Europe: A Rising Star in Cycling
Her first road race was the 2016 Bev May Tour, where she raced unattached and claimed the QOM jersey. Just three months later, she signed with Australian team Roxsolt and began competing on their European and U.S. schedules. Rylee spent three seasons in the European peloton with UCI Team Andy Schleck-Immo Losch, followed by a move to the North American-based Instafund team in 2022. Most recently, she raced with UCI Continental DNA Pro Cycling, closing out the team’s final year in 2024.
Track and Road Successes: McMullen’s Competitive Edge
Over the years, Rylee has earned numerous podiums in criteriums and road races across New Zealand, the U.S., Canada, and Latin America. On the track, her accolades include multiple medals at the Oceania Championships and a gold medal in the Elimination Race at the 2023 Oceania Championships. She capped her 2024 season with a National Championship in the Points Race in New Zealand.
Academic Achievements and Future Plans
Off the bike, Rylee holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Sport and Exercise Science and Business Marketing. She will be based in Salt Lake City, Utah during the 2025-2026 seasons.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future with Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY24
Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY24 is thrilled to welcome Rylee to the team and looks forward to her contributions as she embarks on this exciting next chapter in her career.
