Tyler Jacobs
Tyler Jacobs
Tyler Jacobs

Rising MTB star Tyler Jacobs ready to conquer the trails and the world!

a name to watch in the world of professional mountain biking!
Fresh out of the junior ranks, the latest addition of #TeamRed is already competing against the best riders on the planet on the gruelling XCO World Cup circuit.
ATHLETE PROFILE
  • Age: 19
  • Team: Trek SA
  • Nutrition sponsor: Biogen
  • Career highlights: u/23 SA XCO Champion 2023 & 2024
  • IG: @tylercjacobs 

Tyler’s cycling career accelerated when she returned to South Africa from Kenya and began training with the Drivetrain group, with her passion and dedication fuelling her rapid ascent.

“The team’s supportive environment, where riders push each other while keeping the sport fun, has been a key factor in my success.”

After gaining valuable stage racing experience riding with fellow Biogen-sponsored rider Candice Lill at the Wines2Whales last year, Tyler is focused on her preferred cross country format racing in the XCO circuit.

“I love the shorter higher intensity races, as well as the technical side of it,” says Tyler.

Going all in

Tyler’s journey to representing South Africa on the international stage has been a learning experience.

“Having only started riding a few years ago, my training hours have slowly increased each base season. I know that cycling is the only thing I want to pursue right now, so I am going all in on the commitment and training I need to make my career a success.”

In addition to the increased mileage and time in the saddle, Tyler is in the gym twice a week to complement her time on the bike.

She is also on a steep learning curve in this phase of her fledgling career, taking lessons from each race.

“I’ve discovered the importance of pacing myself and not burning all my matches early in races. As a young rider, mistakes are inevitable, but I embrace them as valuable lessons that will refine my skills as I gain time and experience.”

Known for her fearless approach to technical terrain, Tyler says navigating the technical stuff is not something she actively trains for.

“I guess it’s an inherent skill. I just love having fun on my bike, which has a lot to do with how fast or technical it is for me.”

Nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting training, recovery and race performances for every rider. While emphasising moderation in her overall diet, Tyler says she prioritises proper fuelling before and after workouts.

“I use Biogen Electrolyte+ and various Biogen Energy Nougat bar flavours, Biogen Energy Chews, and Biogen Energy Gels to fuel my training and racing. I always have Biogen Carbogen and Biogen Cytogen Racing Mix in my bottles. And Biogen Recovergen is my go-to for post-workout recovery, whether that’s after a ride or a gym session,” says Tyler.

Beyond the nutritional support, Tyler values being part of the Biogen team as the brand backs other prominent female cyclists like Candice Lill.

“It’s great being exposed to such phenomenal athletes in this sport because there’s such a lot I can learn from them.”

Her current ambition is to keep pushing herself in the XCO World Cup circuit, embracing every challenge it throws her way.

Looking ahead, she hopes to never lose sight of the joy of cycling in her pursuit to reach the top level of the sport. She also aspires to contribute to the growth of women’s mountain biking in South Africa.

For aspiring female cyclists, Tyler offers some simple yet powerful advice: “Be prepared to push yourself to the absolute limit, accept that setbacks are a part of the journey, so don’t be too hard on yourself, and most importantly, cherish every opportunity that comes your way.”

Shop Tyler’s Supplement Stack: