Retired Cyclist Imogen Cotter Embraces New Year with Engagement
Irish former professional cyclist, Imogen Cotter, started 2025 with joyous news: she’s engaged! her boyfriend, Youri keulen, a professional triathlete from the Netherlands, popped the question during a romantic New Year’s Eve beach walk. The couple,along with their dog Ispín,strolled along Lahinch beach,one of Cotter’s favorite spots,completely unaware that a life-changing moment was about to unfold.
Professional cyclist Imogen Cotter has announced her engagement to her longtime partner, Youri Keulen.Cotter shared the happy news in a social media post reflecting on the past year.
Cotter retired from professional cycling in April 2024 after overcoming a notable injury and five surgeries. The cyclist made a remarkable recovery and returned to the sport in September 2022.
Cotter has as become a vocal advocate for road safety.
“I got engaged to the man who has been through the toughest times with me and always managed to make me laugh throughout! I still can’t believe it,” she wrote.
Congratulations to the happy couple!
## Archyde Exclusive: Imogen Cotter on New Beginnings and a Seaside Proposal
**Interviewer:** Imogen, congratulations on your engagement! what a fantastic way to start the new year.
**Imogen Cotter:** Thank you so much! It’s been a dream come true. Youri really outdid himself.
**Interviewer:** Can you tell us about the proposal?
**Imogen Cotter:** It was perfect. We were strolling along lahinch beach, one of my favorite spots, with our dog Ispín. It was a crisp new Year’s Eve evening, and the sunset was absolutely breathtaking. Youri got down on one knee, and I honestly couldn’t believe it was happening. Of course, I said yes! [[1](https://www.instagram.com/annalise_murphy/p/CwFOL3DMkM0/)]
**Interviewer:** lahinch beach has a special significance for you, then?
**Imogen Cotter:** It really does. it’s where I come to unwind, to reconnect with nature, and to simply be myself. Having such a meaningful moment unfold there made it even more special.
**Interviewer:** You recently retired from professional cycling. Has this given you time to reflect on your career and what’s next?
**Imogen cotter:** Absolutely. Cycling has been such a huge part of my life. It’s taught me so much about discipline, perseverance, and pushing yourself beyond your limits. While I miss the competition, I’m excited to explore new opportunities and passions outside of the sport.
**Interviewer:** And of course, wedding planning will be keeping you busy!
**Imogen Cotter:** Definitely! We’re both excited to start planning our big day and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
**Interviewer:** Well, we wish you both all the best for your future together. Thank you for taking the time to chat with us, Imogen.
**Imogen Cotter:** Thank you so much for having me.
## Archyde Interview: Imogen Cotter on Love, Resilience, and New Beginnings
**Archyde:** Imogen, huge congratulations on your engagement! Tell us about the special moment Youri proposed.
**Imogen Cotter:** Thank you so much! It was truly magical. Youri planned a New Year’s Eve walk on Lahinch Beach, one of my absolute favorite places. I had no idea he was going to propose, so it was a complete surprise. We were there with our dog, Ispín, and as we were walking along the shore, he got down on one knee. It was the perfect end to a wonderful year.
**Archyde:** lahinch Beach clearly holds a special place in your heart. What makes it so meaningful to you?
**Imogen Cotter:** It’s just a beautiful, peaceful spot. There’s something so calming about the ocean breeze and the sound of the waves. Being able to share that serenity with Youri and Ispín made the moment even more special.
**Archyde:** You’ve been through a lot in recent years, particularly with your cycling accident in 2022. How do you feel about embarking on this new chapter in your life?
**Imogen Cotter:** That accident was certainly a turning point. It taught me the importance of appreciating every moment and truly living life to the fullest.
Youri was my rock throughout my recovery.his support meant the world to me, and now getting engaged feels like the perfect way to celebrate everything we’ve been through together. This new chapter feels filled with hope,love,and new adventures.
**Archyde:** You retired from professional cycling in April 2024. What’s next for you?
**Imogen Cotter:** While cycling was a huge part of my life, I’m excited to explore other passions. Being an advocate for road safety is something very close to my heart, so I’m looking forward to continuing that work.
**Archyde:** what message would you have for people going through challenging times or facing adversity?
**Imogen Cotter:** Never give up hope. Even when things seem darkest, there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel. Lean on your loved ones, believe in yourself, and never stop fighting for what you want.
**Archyde:** Imogen, thank you so much for sharing your story with us. We wish you and Youri all the best for a lifetime of happiness together.
**Imogen Cotter:** Thank you.
