Kathleen Shannon

Kathleen Shannon is a former cyclist whose achievements in the late 1980s and early 1990s significantly contributed to the development of women's road racing.

Born on 20 September 1964, Shannon secured the Australian national road race title four times in 1985, 1986, 1990 and 1991, showcasing her dominance in the sport. To this day, only Kathy Watt can claim the same number of victories. Shannon also fondly recalls winning the Australian national road team time trial with New South Wales in 1991.

“Very humbled and honoured to be inducted into the Hall of Fame - all the years of hard work and sacrifice, from not only myself but my parents, have contributed to this incredible honour,” she said.

Internationally, in 1990, Shannon earned a bronze medal in the road race at the Commonwealth Games in Auckland, marking a significant milestone in her career. She represented Australia in the road race at the 1988 and 1992 Olympics, finishing 29th in Seoul and 7th in Barcelona, respectively. Her consistent performances at the UCI Road World Championships further solidified her status as a leading cyclist of her era.

“My greatest achievement would have to be representing Australia at two Olympic Games, and the 1990 Auckland, New Zealand Commonwealth Games. Growing up in the western suburbs of Sydney, of working-class parents, I never dreamt I would travel the world and be a two-time Olympian,” Shannon said.

Shannon's legacy includes inspiring future generations of female cyclists in Australia, paving the way for greater participation and recognition in the sport on a professional and on personal level, after she was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2010.

“I underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiation,” Shannon recalled. “Struggling to come to terms with my diagnoses was deeply heartbreaking. I truly believe things happen for a reason; I was given the opportunity to participate in a number of fundraising events for charity.

“Being affected by this terrible disease I experienced first-hand what fundraising was needed to help one day find a cure for cancer.

“I participated in The Ride to Conquer Cancer, benefiting the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, in 2013, 2014, and 2015, when I was appointed as an ambassador for that year. Collectively, our team raised closed to $300,000. In 2016, I was appointed ambassador for The March Charge campaign with Cancer Council Australia.

“I will continue to live a long, fit and healthy lifestyle, riding my bike.”