December 13/07 7:59 am - Tour of Pennsylvania Accepting Team Applications

Posted by Editor on 12/13/07
 

Tour of Pennsylvania Accepting Team Applications

The world's richest cycling race for U-25 riders is now seeking applications from the world's elite, young cycling teams. Organizers of The American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania, presented by Highmark Healthy High 5, are ramping up operations for this unprecedented six-day stage race in June 2008 and are now in the process of team selection.

The international tour will begin with a Prologue Time Trial in Philadelphia and will cover approximately 500 miles over six days (June 24-29), with finish line events in Philadelphia, Carlisle, Bedford and Latrobe and a race grand finale in Pittsburgh to help celebrate the southwestern Pennsylvania region's 250th anniversary. A total of $150,000 will be awarded in stage prizes, overall general classification and special competitions - the world's largest-ever prize list for U-25 riders.

"We're delighted that this race will build on cycling's strong traditions by showcasing the sport's up and coming talent," said Jerry Casale, chief operating officer of Pro Cycling Tour, LLC, the company that is organizing the race, along with ISM-USA and Pittsburgh 250. "In fact, we're inviting at least 20 six-rider teams of the world's best young cyclists in the espoir class, including some who may participate in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and Tour de France."

The Tour of Pennsylvania route will roughly follow the historic Forbes Road (along U.S. 30), which was created in 1758 when British General John Forbes and Colonel George Washington forged a trail through the challenging terrain of the Allegheny Mountains to the Forks of the Ohio during the French and Indian War, founding Bedford, Ligonier and Pittsburgh along the way. "The route's combination of challenging terrain and the Pittsburgh circuits make it the ideal format for a stage race," said Casale.

Teams interested in receiving application materials for this first-of-its-kind, world-class event, should contact Robin Zellner, Technical Director at rzellner@procyclingtour.com.

To learn more about the American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania, presented by Highmark Healthy High 5, visit www.tourofpa.com.