Marj Rinaldo (usa)

Marjorie Rinaldo is a professional road cyclist from Tucson, Arizona, known for her strength in individual time trials and stage racing. A lifelong athlete, Marjorie’s foundation in endurance and power began in high school, where she competed in swimming and track & field while also lifting weights with her dad — a formative experience that sparked her passion for sport. Following the birth of her daughter in 2011, Marjorie transitioned into triathlon, combining her background in swimming and running with her growing love for cycling. She earned her professional triathlon license in 2019 and began racing at the pro level in 2021. Her talent and competitive drive soon led her to specialize in cycling, and she made a full switch to road racing in 2022. Since then, Marjorie has rapidly made her mark in the U.S. domestic cycling scene, delivering strong performances in national time trials and multi-day stage races, including the Tour of the Gila.

What inspired you to become a bike racer?

It’s something I had always though about but moving to Tucson and doing the Shootout for the first time made me want to make the jump to bike racing.

Who is an inspiration to you in your life, both on and off the bike?

My dad. He had a very positive attitude and was always working hard and having fun while doing it.

The best thing about being a bike racer is?

Getting to ride my bike in places I never would have gone otherwise.

What is your biggest accomplishment on the bike?

My ability to keep clawing my way up a level each year. It’s something a really proud of.

Favorite place you’ve raced your bike and why?

Silver City NM. I grew up in a small town about 90 minutes away so it feels like a hometown race for me. Tour of the Gila was something everyone talked about out there so it was a huge honor to race it the last 2 years.

Favorite cross training or off-season activity?

Swimming/snoozing on a raft at the U of A pool.

Best tip for a new bike racer?

Make a friend that knows more than you and listen to them. They have made all the mistakes and will help you to not make as many.

What are one or two things that you do daily that are the key to your success?

Prioritizing sleep and making sure I’m eating enough quality foods.

If you could spend 10 days anywhere, where would it be?

Any sunny beach with my loved ones.

Favorite things to do off the bike:

1. Snuggle with my dog (Duke) and cat (Etta)
2. Relentlessly harass my boyfriend (Gil)
3. Go to the pool with my daughter (Alaina)
4. Lift weights in the garage
5. Go for walks

Top 5 warmup/pre-race songs:

1. Paranoid (Ozzy Osbourne)
2. No more tears (Ozzy Osbourne)
3. Enter Sandman (Metallica)
4. War Nerve (Pantera)
5. Paranoid (Avenged Sevenfold)

Favorite things to eat:

1. Cheeseburgers
2. Watermelon
3. Eggs
4. Pizza

Tell us something about yourself that people may not know

I talk to animals in a really dumb voice and I really enjoy my alone time.