Ep. 73: Is elite cyclist Illi Gardner the best pure climber of her generation?

In this episode of The Virtual Velo Podcast, co-hosts Emma Martin and Chris Schwenker sit down with grimpeur extraordinaire Illi Gardner—multi-time British and European Hill Climb Champion, two-time Everesting world record holder, and the 2024 Zwift Games Climb Champion.

With over 10,000 climbing QOMs to her name, including iconic climbs like Ventoux, Tourmalet, Galibier, Zoncolan, Stelvio, and Madone, Illi has redefined what it means to be a pure climber in both the real and virtual worlds.

Illi tells us which climb is harder—Alpe d’Huez or Alpe du Zwift—whether she was relieved when Demi Vollering didn’t take her crown during the 2024 Tour de France Femmes, and if she’s worried her Col de la Madeleine record will fall on this year’s queen stage.

We break down the life and process of the world’s pre-eminent summit sniper—and contemplate whether her dominance on the steepest slopes puts her in the conversation as the best pure climber of the modern era, or if the lack of a pro palmarès closes the door on that debate.

Don’t miss out on the unique opportunity to delve even deeper into the intriguing topics discussed in this episode.

• Elite Eracer Illi Gardner—No Special Effects Required in Her Stunning Performance [Zommunique, Apr 24, 2022]
• A True QOM—Former Professional Cyclist Illi Gardner Breaks Down What It Takes To Win the Zwift Games! [Zommunique, May 29, 2024]
• How are Indoor Specialists Using Esports-Specific Training to Push the Boundaries of Performance? [Zommunique, Mar 11, 2025]
• VVN’s Most Impactful People in Cycling Esports For 2025 [Zommunique, Apr 8, 2025]

Join us for a conversational ride as we lend a voice to the digital athlete and bridge the gap between athlete and avatar.

Statements made by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the podcast, its hosts, or its partners. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions.