Former Triathlete Lizzie Stannard Signs Pro Contract with EF Education-Cannondale

The 26-year-old former triathlete from Australia, Lizzie Stannard, has recently signed a professional contract with EF Education-Cannondale. Lizzie, who started out swimming, biking, and running back in New Zealand, decided to give up running and swimming and focus solely on cycling.

“Racing is what Lizzie loved. That was one of her frustrations with triathlon; she didn’t get to race very much,” the article states. “So she decided to give up running and swimming, but not cycling. She’d never give up cycling. Riding bikes was fun.”

After a road trip to Canada and the United States to race, Lizzie’s future as an athlete began to take shape. She moved to Melbourne, Australia, and continued racing. However, due to the lack of racing opportunities during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lizzie decided to move to Europe and joined an Italian team.

“It was not always easy racing abroad. Lizzie learned a ton from her Italian team and had some very strong and experienced teammates. But Lizzie was living all alone in a team house in a small Italian town,” the article reveals. “She got lonely, but kept going and earned some good results. For the next year, she decided to move to Girona. That was the best move she has ever made.”

In Girona, Lizzie found a supportive community of fellow cyclists and made great friends. Her performances improved, and she had significant achievements in races such as Euganissima Flandres and Giro Toscana Int. Femminile.

Now, Lizzie has joined EF Education-Cannondale, a decision driven by her desire to continue learning and improving as an athlete. She will have access to a team of experts who can help her develop further.

“I want to be able to capitalize on all of the resources I will have available and the people that I will be able to work with and learn as much as possible to be able to continue my development as an athlete,” Lizzie explains.

Esra Tromp, the general manager of EF Education-Cannondale, is also excited about working with Lizzie, highlighting her strength, positive attitude, and potential for growth. “She brings a great mentality to the team,” Tromp says.

Off the bike, Lizzie’s hunger for knowledge and adventure will also contribute to the team. She is always reading and looking for the next place to visit.

“Welcome to the team, Lizzie Stannard!”