Our final photographer is Karen Edwards, a photographer who has gone from strength to strength this year. Based in Ireland, her work features both young amateur cyclists in those small but hard-fought weekend races as well as the biggest pro names in the biggest races. We look forward to seeing how high she flies next year.

The picture : Eddie Dunbar

There are people that inspire me in life and this guy is one of them. I’ve known Eddie since he was 13 – racing underage. He has a pure hunger for racing and the public got to see Ed race in the worlds. Take note….watch this guy!

Karen Edwards’ 2015

“At the end of 2014, I made the decision to pursue my dream of shooting pro cycling. I knew it wasn’t going to be easy, but passion and drive pushed me and having the backing of great friends has helped me on my journey.

“Getting my accreditation and knocking on doors constantly learning the right way to do this job took time, patience and perseverance. I received my creds a week before Fleche Wallonne and, with the help of my friend Kris, I covered the race on the motorbike. Admittedly, I was nervous going into a brand new scene, but funnily enough I felt right at home once I found my feet. From here on, one job just seemed to lead to another.

“My aim always was to portray the dedication of road racing from winter training miles to start of season races and all the emotions of this sport. There is so much behind the scenes and on the road that the public don’t get to see. Maybe the fact that I trained with clubs and listening to the riders speak about the ups and downs really stood out to me. The public has been an amazing support – and have been my best and most helpful critics. I love racing passionately. And I will be forever chasing races!”

Follow Karen on Twitter, Instagram and her website. This is the first time we’ve featured her work on VeloVoices – and we’re sincerely hoping it won’t be the last!