'The harder the race, the better.'

World champion. Olympic silver medalist. Classics rider. Stage Racer. Leader. Mother. Ambassador. 

Lizzie Deignan is that rare thing, a pioneer in her sport who has battled to the very top, and then exploded beyond the confines of cycling to become an icon, a celebrity, a name. The first Briton to win a medal at the home Olympics of 2012, Deignan rose and rose to a nearly unbeatable level by 2016, sweeping the year, winning on all terrains.

And now? Lizzie's back, new baby Orla in tow, Tokyo Olympics firmly in her sights. Who would bet against her?