Swansea University has awarded an honorary master of arts (MA) degree to Olympic gold medallist Elinor Barker MBE, in recognition of her outstanding achievements and contribution to international cycling.
Born and raised in Cardiff, Elinor’s journey to the top of world cycling began at age 10, when she joined the Maindy Flyers Cycling Club. Her talent was quickly recognised, leading to her recruitment into British Cycling’s Olympic Development Academy.
Elinor’s rise was meteoric. She became a world champion in the team pursuit in 2013 and 2014 before claiming Olympic gold in Rio 2016 at just 21. She later added a silver medal at the Tokyo 2021 Games and both silver and bronze at Paris 2024 — making her Wales’s most decorated female Olympian, with four Olympic medals.
In addition to her Olympic success, the 30-year-old is a three-time world champion and seven-time European champion in the team pursuit. She is also a two-time world champion in the points race and has claimed world titles in both the madison and scratch races. At the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia, she won gold in the points race.
Elinor was appointed MBE in the 2017 New Year Honours for services to cycling.
Following the birth of her son, Nico, in 2022, Elinor made a remarkable return to elite sport just five months later. She also transitioned into road cycling, joining the Women’s WorldTour team Uno-X. Her track season remained impressive, with double gold at the 2023 World Championships in Glasgow.
Elinor recently announced she is expecting her second child, due in December, and remains focused on a potential return to elite competition ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
On receiving her honorary award, Elinor said:“It’s really special to receive this award from Swansea University. I’m so glad that I was able to come and be a part of these graduation celebrations and everybody’s special day. It’s truly been a lovely day and I’m incredibly grateful.”