Jill Kintner is more than just an exceptional athlete—she’s a force of nature in the mountain biking world. Over her multi-decade career, she has not only accumulated an awe-inspiring list of accolades but also used her platform to inspire countless others, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in both the sport and the surrounding culture.
A versatile champion across multiple disciplines, Jill’s résumé reads like a dream for any professional rider. She has excelled in downhill, 4X, slalom, enduro, and pump track, winning an astonishing 25 elite USA national championships across six different disciplines. This adaptability and technical prowess are nearly unmatched in the history of the sport. Her ability to seamlessly dominate such a wide variety of events speaks to her unique combination of skill, endurance, and sheer determination.
Among her many accomplishments, Jill holds five Queen of Crankworx titles and has captured 43 Crankworx gold medals and 62 podium finishes, making her a living legend in mountain biking. Even as riders half her age challenge her in the gates, Jill continues to assert her dominance, racing and winning well into her forties. She remains an indomitable presence on the track.
But Jill’s impact extends far beyond the racecourse. She has made a lasting contribution to the mountain biking community through her coaching, mentorship, and advocacy for the next generation of riders, particularly young women. Her “Race Craft” clinics are designed to demystify racing, offering young riders the tools they need not just to succeed, but to thrive in competitive settings. Her coaching style, which focuses on everything from mindset to technical skills, has helped countless aspiring athletes gain the confidence and ability to elevate their performance.
In addition to her racing and coaching, Jill is also an artist, and her creative spirit has woven itself into the very fabric of mountain biking culture. Whether through custom helmet designs or art projects at events, Jill uses her artistic talents to connect with the community in fresh and meaningful ways. Her film, Bandit Hill, which combines her hand-drawn animations with live-action riding, demonstrates her ability to blend her love of cycling with her artistic vision. This crossover into art has made Jill a truly multifaceted figure in the sport, appealing to a broader audience beyond racing enthusiasts.
Jill Kintner’s career is one of both longevity and consistency. Competing at the elite level for over two decades, she has continually pushed the boundaries of what it means to be a professional rider. Her ability to remain at the top of her game, winning events like the Sea Otter Classic and Crankworx well into her 40s, is a testament to her dedication and passion for the sport.
Jill Kintner is not only one of the most decorated athletes in the history of mountain biking, but also a powerful mentor, artist, and leader within the community. Her influence will undoubtedly be felt for years to come, and her contributions to the sport—both on and off the bike—make her more than deserving of a place in the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame. As much as she is admired for her fierce competitive spirit, it is her ability to connect with people and inspire the next generation of riders that makes Jill truly extraordinary. Her legacy, much like the vibrant art she creates, will continue to inspire and shape the future of mountain biking for generations to come.