'Five years ago I didn't even know what Unbound Gravel was' - Former US ski team racer now a formidable force at The Traka and Unbound

Cecily Decker, a former US ski team athlete turned gravel racer, has rapidly established herself as a formidable competitor in the gravel cycling scene. Despite a recent crash at the Levi’s GranFondo that injured her elbow and cast doubt on her participation in The Traka 200, Decker managed to continue racing and travel to Spain for the event. Her resilience follows a remarkable transition from alpine skiing, where a chronic knee injury forced her to pivot to cycling just two years ago. Decker’s gravel career has progressed swiftly, marked by consistent top-10 finishes in prominent races such as the Belgian Waffle Rides and the Life Time Grand Prix series. Her breakthrough came with a victory at The Rift, a former Gravel World Series race, and she solidified her status last season with podium finishes at Sea Otter Gravel, The Traka 200, and a notable second place at Unbound Gravel 200. These results propelled her to second overall in the Life Time Grand Prix, signalling her rapid rise in a sport she barely knew five years ago. Reflecting on her journey, Decker acknowledges the shift in expectations, both personal and external, as she has grown into a serious contender. Her knee injury, which required surgery and a period on crutches before the 2025 season, initially cast doubt on her cycling future. Yet, she surprised herself with strong performances early last year, demonstrating her determination and adaptability. Decker’s background in high-level sport and her experience with injury recovery have clearly contributed to her mental toughness on the gravel circuit. Looking ahead, Decker plans to focus more on challenging races such as Leadville, which she describes as one of the toughest due to its elevation and course profile. Living at altitude in New Mexico and accustomed to travel from her skiing days, she is prepared to target key events in the US after competing in Europe. Her steady progression and competitive mindset suggest she will remain a significant presence in gravel racing throughout the 2026 season and beyond.