The driving force behind Kuzesc Online is a group of seasoned professionals dedicated to the evolution of cycling. Our leaders combine decades of industry experience with a shared passion for life on two wheels.

Marcus Vane

Chief Executive Officer & President

  • Background: Marcus entered the competitive circuit in 1986 and has been a fixture in the sport ever since, racing across Junior, Elite, and Masters categories. In 2000, he founded Apex Velo, transforming it into a premier global eCommerce cycling brand.

  • Expertise: Previously a VP at major outdoor retailers and a Director for regional cycling development initiatives, Marcus is a specialist in transforming cities into cycling destinations. He is an active race promoter and served on the organizing committee for the 2022 World Championships.

  • Personal: Based between Little Rock and Colorado Springs, Marcus is a father of three and a collector of fine machinery, currently maintaining a stable of nine bikes.

Elena Sterling

Chief Operating Officer

  • Background: Elena joined the leadership team in 2021 following a high-impact tenure at the National Skating Federation. Under her guidance, membership reached record-breaking levels, resulting in a 21% revenue increase through innovative engagement strategies.

  • Expertise: Holding an MBA from the Peter T. Paul College of Business, Elena specializes in program development and “lifelong membership” models. She is a master of operational efficiency and community growth.

  • Personal: A Colorado native and outdoor enthusiast, Elena is a former orienteering champion and an avid hiker.

Julian “Jules” Thorne

Chief of Sport Performance

  • Background: A former professional cyclist who transitioned into elite coaching in 1999. Julian is a three-time recipient of the Order of Ikkos—the highest international honor for coaches—for leading athletes to multiple Olympic gold medals.

  • Expertise: Julian spent years as the Director of Endurance Programs, overseeing the development of U23 and women’s elite road and track teams. After a brief stint in business development for high-tech training platforms, he returned to lead our high-performance division.

  • Personal: Julian remains a student of human physiology and a relentless advocate for the “science of winning.”

Sarah Drumm

Chief Philanthropy Officer & Foundation Director

  • Background: Joining in 2025, Sarah brings a powerhouse background in conservation and non-profit leadership. She previously directed multi-million dollar fundraising initiatives for major land trusts, protecting thousands of acres of natural landscapes.

  • Expertise: A former NCAA Division I captain, Sarah bridge the gap between competitive athletics and charitable impact. She sits on several community boards focused on youth sports and environmental stewardship.

  • Personal: Based in Bozeman, Montana, she spends her time in the mountains with her husband and their Brittany spaniel.

Dominic Thorne

Chief Administrative Officer & General Counsel

  • Background: Dominic joined the organization in 2014 as a Staff Attorney before ascending to the executive suite in 2022. He oversees all legal matters, including governance, intellectual property, and risk management.

  • Expertise: A Juris Doctor graduate from the University of Denver, Dominic is also a board member for non-profits that produce 100-mile mountain bike fundraisers. He leads our integrity and SafeSport initiatives.

  • Personal: A regular on the cyclocross and MTB circuit, Dominic lives in Colorado with his wife and their cat, Jack.

Clara Whitmore

Executive Assistant & Director of Operations

  • Background: A cornerstone of the organization since 2009, Clara serves as the Corporate Secretary and the “right hand” to the CEO. She transitioned from a 25-year career as a paralegal at top-tier international law firms.

  • Expertise: Clara manages the daily heartbeat of the headquarters, balancing complex administrative logistics with her role as the team’s cultural anchor.

  • Personal: An advocate for yoga and the arts, Clara is often seen exploring the local trails on her E-bike alongside her dog, Jolene.

Dr. Aris Vance

Executive Director of Athlete Experience & Health

  • Background: Aris holds a PhD in Sport Psychology and spent a decade in the international anti-doping community. Her research, funded by the IOC and WADA, focused on evidence-based education and athlete whistleblowing procedures.

  • Expertise: A former scholarship basketball and volleyball athlete, Aris uses her unique academic and athletic background to protect the integrity of the sport and the holistic welfare of every member.

  • Personal: Aris is driven by the goal of raising the “athlete’s voice” within the international peloton.