Nicola Rutzou
Melbourne cyclist Emily Dixon has edged out her rivals in the Zwift Academy to earn herself a place in the development squad of women’s pro team CANYON//SRAM zondacrypto.
Dixon was one of four female riders selected to test with the team for the coveted place after participating in the 2024 Zwift Academy, which saw over 100,000 cyclists participate between 5 August and 3 November last year.
In the four days of intensive testing with the team, she made a considerable impression with a standout performance in the initial eight-minute hill climb test and backed that up with the fastest time around a technical go-kart track.
The accomplished 18-year-old Australian, alongside Canada’s Noah Ramsay, who secured a place on the Alpecin-Deceuninck Development Team, is the latest name on the list of Zwift Academy alumni, including fellow Aussie Neve Bradbury.
According to the team, Dixon stood out by combining impressive power numbers, exceptional bike-handling skills and maturity beyond her years. “Tackling every challenge with a calm and collected spirit, she focused on proving her own ability rather than being influenced by her competitors’ performances – an approach that impressed the judges. Determined to make her mark, she delivered where it mattered most and marked herself out as the best, time and time again,” said a team spokesperson.
Dixon said of her win, “It’s been such an amazing week, I’ve loved every minute of it and am so grateful for everyone at Zwift and the CANYON//SRAM zondacrypto team – I’ve learnt so much and they have all been so kind and welcoming. I’m utterly speechless and did not expect to win the 2024 Zwift Academy at all. I’m really looking forward to getting started with the team.”
Since the start of 2025, Dixon has gained valuable race experience in UCI and National events in Australia, most notably competing at the World Tour classified Tour Down Under with the Australian National team. She finished 19th on the Queen Stage up Willunga Hill and secured second place in the Youth Classification. She is now preparing to move to Europe, where she will be based in Girona, home to the CANYON//SRAM zondacrypto Generation service course and accommodation.
CANYON//SRAM zondacrypto Generation officially kicks off its season on 23 March at the Gran Premio Igartza in Beasain, Basque Country, the second round of the Copa de España Féminas.
Watch the final round of a team challenge here.
