Sonya Looney: Champion Mountain Biker and Dedicated Mom

Sonya Looney is a world-champion mountain biker, 4x USA National Champion, performance coach, keynote speaker, and podcast host known for her achievements in ultra-endurance mountain biking. She has been on podiums or set course records in over 25 countries in places like Nepal, Chile, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Mongolia, Spain, Morocco, and South Africa. Sonya inspires others through her podcast, “The Sonya Looney Show,” where she interviews guests and teaches about the intersection of high-performance and well-being.

She holds two Master's degrees: a Master of Applied Positive Psychology and a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering, along with her National Board Certified Health and Wellness Professional Coach certification. Sonya is a mom to two busy toddlers and is known for her energy, positive and resilient mindset, and empowering others to find their best and experience greater well-being. She is also the co-founder of the Women's Cycling Summit, an event to help women add value and feel valued in their community.

Why Mountain Biking (MTB)?

"Mountain biking is the ultimate path to adventure and personal growth. It's the best way to explore the mountains and desert and connect with nature in a special and playful way. The awe you get to experience being in nature and the ability to see so much is life-changing! Mountain bike skills are also a continuous journey, no matter how long you've been riding! It's one of the rare experiences in life when you can light up like a child when you ride something new on the trail ("I DID IT!") and see the benefits of deliberate practice. I love racing and hard rides because it's the best way to learn about yourself, fosters resilience, mental toughness, and self-acceptance. There is something about facing yourself that teaches you who you want to be, how to get better at handling challenges, and a confidence and self-reliance you can't get anywhere else. Mountain biking also creates community; people are always eager to share their favorite trails. No matter where you go around the world, you can find a mountain bike community."

What About MTB is the Most Exciting?

"Mountain biking is a vehicle to explore your potential and find fulfillment through perseverance and curiosity! I love exploring new trails and not knowing what's around the next corner."

What Do You Hope to Accomplish This Season?

"After racing for 20 years, I don't think of seasons in terms of traditional accomplishments. Of course, when I line up for a race, I'm racing to win, and I'm doing my best to prepare for the races. However, my goals are aligned with more than personal outcomes. My goal is more aligned with my purpose—to something bigger than me—and that is to help other people choose growth, cultivate vitality and optimism, and have the courage and mindset to do the things that are meaningful to them. My goal is to help others see that so much is possible if you show up consistently and are open to growth and possibility. Maybe that's inspiring someone to take their first bike ride or sign up for their first race. Maybe that's helping someone who wants to have children but is afraid of losing their identity see that you can do both. Or maybe it's simply providing the coaching and encouragement to pursue meaningful goals that have nothing to do with cycling. My goal every day and every season is to help others know themselves better so they can feel a heightened sense of well-being aligned with their goals and strivings, relationships, and connected to the world around them."

Why Partner with GOREWEAR?

"Equipment and clothing can crank up or down the fun dial on a ride. If you are unprepared, things can get miserable quickly! I've been using GOREWEAR apparel for many years! The jackets and gloves have kept me safe and comfortable in the mountains on big adventures—from the Himalayas to Patagonia to the Rockies! Also, I look for jerseys that have pockets to hold everything I need. Many jerseys have tiny pockets, making it difficult to carry what you need on a ride. Having the highest quality apparel helps me adventure and race with confidence! I also like to partner with brands who have a similar vision. It's not just about mountain biking; it's about helping others find their best, and GOREWEAR also aligns with this vision! I'm sad to report that many brands do not support female cyclists, let alone female cyclists who are mothers. I'm a mother to a 4- and 2-year-old. I am so grateful to partner with people who care about supporting female athletes because seeing female athletes and moms out there is what will help grow the sport!"

Outside of MTB What Can We Find You Doing?

"I like to stay busy! Being a professional mountain biker is just one hat I wear! I spend a lot of time with my kids! Also, I've hosted a weekly podcast for the last 7 years (The Sonya Looney Show) about playing at the intersection of high-performance and well-being. I am at my best when coaching and love working with my clients! I also just finished a Master of Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, so I am creating workshops to help athletes be more resilient and thrive in pursuing their goals. I am a keynote speaker, and I am also working on my first book! I am also excited to be working more with businesses and leaders doing coaching, speaking, and workshops and to help people find greater meaning and well-being at work!"