The DTE Pursuit Awards empower Colorado-based women with cycling ambition to achieve their goals.

Meet The DTE 2026 Pursuit Award Riders.

  • Monica Cardenas - 31 - Denver

    I'm originally from Maryland and have been in Denver for just under 2 years. I learned how to ride a bike at age 12 and didn't pick one up again until I was 27 to participate in a triathlon - I basically had to re-learn how to ride a bike! After the event, I decided road riding wasn't for me and found the world of gravel cycling. In search of a community, I joined a gravel cycling development team for BIPOC athletes based in the DC area, Melanin Base Miles. Having the support of a team changed my life and made me truly fall in love with the world of cycling. Since then, I've been fortunate enough to have participated in events across the country, gotten into bikepacking and mountain biking, and even cycled abroad in Colombia, where my family is from. 

    I'm 5 years into my cycling journey and am excited to continue this lifelong journey with a community in my new home. For 2026, I want to challenge myself on the bike and find a solid community of riders to be a part of. 

  • Maggie Parrish - 27 - Fort Collins

    Hi, my name is Maggie Parrish! I’m originally from Tampa, Florida but moved to Fort Collins, Colorado about 4 years ago. I’m 27 years old and have been involved in bike racing for around 6 months now. I haven’t done many events yet, but my favorite one so far has been the Salida 76. Racing across the high country east of Salida made for such an adventure, featuring big climbs, mud, and spectacular views! My first season of cycling got me hooked on the sport, and my current goals of racing at a higher level and supporting other women in their own cycling journeys quickly formed. After seeing all the amazing things that DTE athletes were doing this summer on social media and learning more about the general values of the team, I knew I had to apply. Throughout my time with DTE, I hope to learn as much as possible, make significant steps towards racing in elite fields, and give back to the team wherever I can!

    Even when I’m not cycling, I’m usually outside. As a forest and fire ecologist, I’m often either out measuring trees along the Front Range or thinking about our forests as I analyze the data collected out in the field. I love to rock climb, cross-country ski, backpack, and sail, ideally with my friends and family. When I’m not outside, I like to play the piano, paint, embroider, and read. 

  • Taylor Reffett - 31 - Colorado Springs

    I'm Taylor Reffett, a 30-year-old living in Colorado Springs, CO. I started cycling when I broke my ankle in 2024 and couldn't run, but soon got hooked! My first race was last summer at SBT GRVL as part of the inaugural GRVL Femmes. I was so intimidated by racing, but ended up having way more fun than I was expecting. My favorite event has been Grassroots Gravel with the low-key vibes and super-friendly atmosphere! I've done most of my training and racing by myself, so I'm looking forward to being part of a community. When I'm not riding, I also work as an ER doctor and have a penchant for baking sourdough. I can't wait for the 2026 season!

  • Nicole Silk - 61 - Nederland

    I am 61, have a busy and meaningful career in conservation devoted to rivers and fresh water around the world, and live in the foothills between Boulder and Nederland. As a former whitewater guide, adventure is seared deep into my ethos and outlook. I have raised two amazing humans who are thriving and have a deep love for the outdoors too. Both were top cyclists through high school, my daughter was a collegiate cycling athlete, and has continued to spread her version of cycling joy as a sponsored enduro and gravity cycling enthusiast. As for my cycling credentials, I've ridden off and on for decades, but found the mountain bike scene and discipline intimidating for a variety of reasons (great for my kids though!!). Determined to rekindle my stoke for cycling and fitness after a tough year (divorce, death of my father, broken pelvis and collarbone from being bucked off a horse, and a career transition), I bought my gravel bike two years ago. The spark is back! I love longer rides, multi-day adventures, and just getting out there, both here and abroad. My first race ever was earlier this year - NedGravel. The 50 miles route was challenging and definitely inspired me to continue my journey on two wheels!  

2026 Pursuit Award Race Partners