No one can deny that Rachel Atherton is one incredible sportswoman. With the exception of Tahnée Seagrave, no one has gotten close to beating her all season. Even after smashing world records and dominating the race season, Rachel works hard to promote women’s riding by hosting the Red Bull Foxhunt each year.

While Rachel has been smashing her way down the trails, and gaining some serious momentum in the World Cup scene, she still remains an unknown champion in mainstream sports. Until now…

Last night, Rachel Atherton won the BT Sport Action Woman Of the Year award after readers voted for their champion. Up against some stiff competition from all fields of sport, Rachel managed to scoop the win, in an Olympic year no less.

In addition to the thank-you’s and appreciation for winning, Rachel goes on to highlights the importance of seeing mountain biking in the media. Speaking to the younger generation of female riders, Rachel tells them to give it a go and to just ride bikes.

Such a phenomenal year for Rachel Atherton, having won every race, hosted the biggest women’s only mass start event, and now winning the BT Sport Action Woman Of the Year award.

She’s got herself a good footing to kick off the upcoming race season with, but will she be able to hold on to that top spot?