2025 MCA Female Participation Committee

Introducing the Female Participation Committee

Established in 2025, the Female Participation Committee was formed in response to feedback gathered from the Manitoba Cycling Association’s race and program surveys in 2024.

The Goal of the Committee

The committee’s primary focus is addressing the key concerns highlighted in the 2024 MCA survey results. By working with the MCA board, cycling clubs, commissaires, athletes, and volunteers, we aim to create a more inclusive, supportive, and developmentally appropriate environment for women and young girls in cycling. Our ultimate goal is to encourage more female participation and retention in the sport, ensuring that everyone feels welcomed at the starting line.

Meet the Committee Members

Bernadine Kostyk
With 11 years of experience in triathlon and six years in the cycling community, I am passionate about racing, group rides, and simply pushing my limits—both locally and internationally. The survey results made it clear that cycling can feel intimidating for women and girls, and I want to help change that. This committee is an important step toward creating a more inclusive environment where all riders feel welcome. For cycling to thrive in Manitoba, we need everyone at the starting line.

Agnieszka (Aggie) Gigiel

I race mountain biking across BC, Ontario, and Manitoba, and in the offseason, I compete in cyclocross in Manitoba. Beyond cycling, I’m connected to other sports, including triathlon, alpine climbing, skiing, and running.  As a founder of this committee, I’m excited to work with this group of women to help strengthen the cycling community by making it more inclusive for women and girls.

Karin Mcsherry
From serving on the Manitoba Cycling Board of Directors to founding the Alter Ego and Velodonnas Cycling Clubs, I have been dedicated to building strong, inclusive cycling communities. As a Commissaire, I work to ensure fairness in competition, and my volunteer efforts at major sporting events reflect my commitment to the sport. I look forward to contributing to this initiative and helping create more opportunities for women in cycling.

Twila Fillion
For the past seven years, Twila has been a champion for inclusivity in cycling, ensuring that everyone—regardless of financial barriers—feels welcome in the sport. As the “Director of Cycling for All” on the MCA Board since 2020, she has led initiatives like the Cycling for All rides (2020–2023), Fall Cyclocross Bootcamps, and the Big Bike Film Night, bringing cyclists together through community-driven events. Her dedication continues to shape a more welcoming and supportive cycling community.