Behind the scenes, she remembered a feeling of deep camaraderie. “We had this incredible USA Cycling support system. Everyone — from the chefs to the mechanics — was just united. That medal represents all of that. It’s about teamwork, passion and love for our sport.”
A New Perspective, A Deeper Purpose
After the high of Paris, 2024 proved to be one of the toughest years of Batten’s life. She suffered two concussions, and in November, her mother was diagnosed with leukemia.
“Cycling is easy compared to life,” she reflected. “When I broke my hand, people were like, ‘I’m so sorry,’ and I thought — honestly, no worries. That’s the least of it. I’ve got perspective now.”
This year, Batten has dedicated her riding to leukemia awareness and fundraising. She’ll host a major campaign with the Leukemia Research Foundation this September, during Leukemia Awareness Month.
“Opening up about my story has been really cool,” she said. “So many people have reached out and shared their own. It’s just a reminder to live fully, be kind — those basic things that are easy to forget.”
A Season of Rebuilding
Though her 2025 race calendar has been interrupted, Batten hasn’t lost her drive. If anything, she’s hungrier than ever.
“I feel a lot more like myself right now,” she said from California, where she’s been recovering and training. “This period has let me come back to the rider I know I am.”
Despite the setbacks, she’s looking ahead. Her sights are set on the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028.
“I’ve got big goals. I want to win more world cups. I want Olympic gold,” she said. “This year is about learning, rebuilding and laying that foundation.”
From Athlete to Analyst — and Back Again
One unexpected highlight this season came when Batten stepped into the broadcast booth for her first commentary gig after crashing out of a world cup short track event.
“I ran into the media guys, and they were like, ‘Want to give it a shot?’ I thought, why not?” she said. “It was definitely different to watch your own competitors race and talk about it, but I really enjoyed it. I’ve always loved analyzing tactics and course dynamics.”
Still, Batten is itching to be back on the course herself.