Pennsylvania Lightning...

 

The Pennsylvania Lightning, is an under age 25 cycling team whose mission is to promote competitive excellence, sportsmanship, teamwork, talent development and brand enhancement while competing in a full season of regional, national and international cycling events highlighted by the Tour of Pennsylvania.

The young PA Lightning team debuted in the 2007 season with just four cyclists and competed successfully in over 40 American track and road events with a dozen top three finishes in elite and professional races from March through August. Two Pennsylvania riders are returning from the 2007 squad, Taylor Brown, 20 of Fleetwood, PA and Michael Chauner, 21 of West Chester. Both are former junior national champions with international experience in road and track racing. They will be joined by fellow Pennsylvanians, Chris Ruhl, 21 of Quakertown, a four time national champion and former junior world’s team member; Kyle Wagner, 23 of Bethlehem, a former junior national team member with racing experience in Belgium, Canada and France, and newcomer Jeff Salvitti, 20 of West Chester. Also named to the team are Ben Showman, 22 of Fairfield, Ohio, a West Point Cadet and number one ranked rider in the Eastern Collegiate Cycling Conference this Spring and Eric Chrabot, 22, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, captain of the Virginia Tech cycling team who spent last season racing in Belgium. Several other American cyclists who have competed with the internationally renowned Johan Bruyneel Cycling Academy in Belgiummay also be named to the 2008 squad.

About the Pennsylvania Lightning
The mission of the Pennsylvania Lightning is to create enduring partnerships that will support and grow a top-quality Pennsylvania-based “Espoir” cycling team that promotes Pennsylvania cycling, competitive excellence, sportsmanship, teamwork, talent development and brand enhancement. Team sponsors include Liberty Sports Magazine, eye see studio, International Specialty Chemicals, Voler Cyclewear, Mavic, Fuji Bicycles, Davis Design Group and Pro Cycling Tour, LLC. For news about the team and to follow its progress, watch for its new website www.PALightning.com

 

American Eagle Outfitters Kicks Off Campaign to Support the Tour of Pennsylvania as Title Sponsor and Exclusive Apparel Retail Partner

Leading Teen Retailer’s Regional In-store and Online Marketing Campaign to Reach Thousands of Young Customers Throughout the Region

PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--American Eagle Outfitters (NYSE: AEO) today announced the kickoff of its campaign to support the Tour of Pennsylvania as title sponsor and exclusive apparel retail partner. The American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania, presented by Highmark Healthy High 5®, is a USA Cycling sanctioned international race for professional riders under the age of 25. The 420 mile, six-stage race will mark the very first Tour de France-style race for young riders in the United States. As the title sponsor and exclusive apparel retail partner, American Eagle will build awareness and encourage participation among its customers through a regional in-store marketing campaign in over 90 stores and online at ae.com that includes direct mail and targeted e-mails designed to reach thousands of teens and twenties.

Beginning today, customers can purchase the limited-edition race T-shirt at www.ae.com/aetourofpa or at a participating AE store in the Pennsylvania region. For each T-shirt purchased, American Eagle Outfitters will donate $5 to the Ronald McDonald House Charities® to support the organization’s year-round commitment to the health and well being of children around the world.

American Eagle is also providing the official logo merchandise for the race. Event goers can visit the AE experience at each race stage finish festival to purchase Tour T-shirts, polos, hoodies, track jackets, bags, as well as the limited-edition race T-shirt. AE also designed the six AE Tour of PA award jerseys that will be presented to elite riders at each stage of the race. These iconic jerseys will be awarded to the leader, best climber, most aggressive, best sprinter, best display of teamwork and best young rider.

“American Eagle Outfitters is extremely proud to join Pittsburgh 250 and Highmark Healthy High 5 in the celebration of our region through this global sporting event,” said Susan McGalla, president and chief merchandising officer, American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. “The AE Tour of PA is a natural fit for our brand, and something that our associates and customers are very excited about.”

The American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania is also a signature sporting event of Pittsburgh 250, a commission established to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the naming of the city. The race course closely parallels the historic Forbes Trail, which in 1758 became the first road across the Alleghenies. The AE Tour of PA offers Pennsylvania communities the opportunity to celebrate their uniqueness through festivals and expos at each start and finish line. It is also an opportunity for young riders to showcase their talent among their peers and for the world to get a glimpse of the sport’s future icons, Olympians and Tour de France riders.

“American Eagle Outfitters’ role as title sponsor sends a strong message to our region’s young people. We’re proud of our past and even more excited about our future,” said Bill Flanagan, executive director of Pittsburgh 250. “We’re excited to have AE celebrate its first year at the SouthSide Works in the heart of Pittsburgh by partnering with Highmark Healthy High 5 to host this signature event of our 250th anniversary celebration.”

Race Schedule:

June 24: Stage 1

Philadelphia1 Prologue TT & Criterium

June 25: Stage 2

Downingtown to Carlisle1

June 26: Stage 3

Camp Hill to Bedford1

June 27: Stage 4

Bedford to Latrobe1

June 28: Stage 5

Ligonier to Pittsburgh’s South Side1

June 29: Stage 6

Downtown Pittsburgh1 - Circuit Race

1Host city for AE Tour of PA race stop festivities and expo.

For more information, visit www.ae.com/aetourofpa.

 

 

AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS® TOUR OF PENNSYLVANIA
PRESENTED BY HIGHMARK HEALTHY HIGH 5®
TEAM PREVIEW

PHILADELPHIA – May 27, 2008 - Cycling’s future stars will get a chance to shine in front of the bike-racing world a month from now when competition kicks off at the inaugural American Eagle Outfitters® Tour of Pennsylvania, presented by Highmark Healthy High 5®. Starting June 24, no less than nine countries and five continents – North and South America, Australia, Africa and Europe -- will be represented in this first-of-its kind, under-25 stage race. During six days of action, 120 riders will make a daunting, 420-mile journey from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh.

With $150,000 in prize money on offer, the Tour of Pennsylvania is the richest under-25 race in the world. It’s also the only UCI-sanctioned event in the U.S. geared specifically to under-25 riders. That combination stimulated worldwide interest and applications from several dozen teams flowed in. But only a select 20 made the final roster of what will be a historic week of racing, one of three signature events of Pittsburgh’s 250th anniversary celebration.

Making the start-list cut for this elite race are some of the world’s best development squads, including the Belgian-based Johan Bruyneel Cycling Academy team, South Africa’s Konica Minolta Continental Cycling Team, and Colorado-based VMG-Felt, the development arm of Slipstream-Chipotle, one of two professional teams that will represent America at this year’s Tour de France.

Leading the VMG-Felt brigade will be Peter Stetina, a superb all around rider from Boulder, Colorado, who was a member of America’s 2007 under-23 world championship team, and took best young rider honors at last year’s Tour de Toona,  a professional-level stage race also held in Pennsylvania.

Stetina comes from sturdy cycling stock. His father, Dale, won more than 200 domestic and international races during the 1970s and ’80s, and was a member of the 1976 and 1980 U.S. Olympic teams. Uncle Wayne Stetina was a 10-time national champion and member of the 1972, ’76 and ’80 Olympic squads. Both men are inductees of the U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame.

VMG-Felt will be directed by former U.S. Postal Service pro Chann McRae, once a teammate of Lance Armstrong.

Another of Armstrong’s former teammates – and cycling TV personality – Frankie Andreu will be marshaling Tour of Pennsylvania troops for the ZteaM, a national cycling club that supports masters, elite, developmental and recreational cycling through club riding. ZteaM chapters operate independently throughout the U.S., but their combined buying power allows them to pass on significant discounts to their members. The club’s long-term goal is to launch a pro continental team, cycling’s equivalent of a triple A baseball squad. The development team is part of that plan, allowing the club to mold young riders for potential future careers in the pro ranks.

“ZteaM is all about building the cycling community through its support for youth and developmental cycling,” said Andreu, who rode the Tour de France nine times and today is a member of the Versus TV Tour de France commentary team. “They have the right vision and model to build a successful program where young riders can benefit greatly.”

Yet another connection to Armstrong and his famed U.S. Postal Service squad is the Johan Bruyneel Cycling Academy team. Bruyneel, of course, was team director for all of Armstrong’s seven Tour de France titles, and today has lent his name and expertise to this Belgian-based team.

The program’s day-to-day operations are run by Bernard Moerman, who previously operated the academy under the banner of the Cycling Center with headquarters at his Oostkamp, Belgium, home. Then and now, the academy’s mission is to give young, mostly American, riders a bike-racing education in hopes of eventually landing them a spot in the professional ranks.

This year, Moerman also brought his development team to Albuquerque, New Mexico, for a training camp that was held in conjunction with Team Astana’s early season training camp. Bruyneel is now team director for Astana, one of the world’s top professional teams, which includes 2007 Tour de France winner Alberto Contador.

Back on this side of the Atlantic is the Pennsylvania Lightning team, an under-25 formation that will have a distinct home-course advantage come race day. The Lightning debuted in 2007 with just four cyclists, but competed in over 40 track and road events, racking up a dozen top three finishes in the elite and professional ranks. Two of the team’s top riders are Pennsylvania natives Taylor Brown of Fleetwood and Michael Chauner of West Chester. Both are former junior national champions with international experience in road and track racing.

The field also includes Argentina’s Esco-Telefonicos, the Australian Praties Cycling Team , Canada-based Team RACE Pro, Ireland’s Pezula Racing, the Dutch Global Cycling squad, Germany’s Team Stadler, Arizona-based Team Waste Management/Racelab U23, California Giant Strawberry Farms, Minnesota’s Kelly Benefit Strategies/Medifast Pro Cycling, New England-based Fiordifrutta Cycling Team, New York’s Sakonnet Technology U25 Team, two North Carolina squads, DLP Racing/Texas Instruments and Time Pro Cycling, Penn St Cancer Institute-GPOA-Cannondale and Team VRC Racing/NOW-MS Society, a Los Angeles-based squad that’s dedicated to helping develop tomorrow’s top pros and raising awareness about multiple sclerosis.

Beginning on hallowed cycling ground in Philadelphia, the American Eagle Outfitters ® Tour of Pennsylvania, presented by Highmark Healthy High 5® follows a historically rich route that passes through towns and countryside that roughly follow the Forbes Trial (U.S. 30), which was forged in 1758 by British General John Forbes and Colonel George Washington as the first road across the Allegheny Mountains. 

Eight Pennsylvania towns and cities will host official race starts and finishes, with communities along the way gaining a first-hand look at the world’s best young talent in the kind of competition that is normally found only in Europe. In addition to Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, the host cities include Downingtown, Carlisle, Camp Hill, Bedford, Latrobe and Ligonier. The race finish will be part of Pittsburgh’s 250th anniversary celebration.

 

 

Nine-Time Tour de France Rider and Former Olympian Frankie Andreu
to Join ZteaM as Directeur Sportif for 2008 American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania,
presented by Highmark Healthy High 5®

 

Nine-time Tour de France rider Frankie Andreu has joined ZteaM as Directeur Sportif during the cycling organization’s quest to win a place on the podium during the 2008 American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania, presented by Highmark Healthy High 5®. Andreu will lend his expertise and support to the bicycling organization, which was chosen as one of only 20 groups to compete in the Pennsylvania event.

Andreu will work along side ZteaM’s elite team leader, Christian Kearney, to prepare racers for the American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania, the very first Tour de France-style “espoir” race in the United States.  Espoir, which means hope in French, denotes the race is for up-and-coming riders under the age of 25. Over 60 teams vied to get into the Tour of Pennsylvania, but ZteaM was one of only 20 teams chosen to participate. The event will be televised around the world and is being dubbed as “the Tour de France for young riders.”

“ZteaM is all about building the cycling community through its support for youth and developmental cycling and has also built a strong sense of camaraderie for the members and the public,” Andreu said.  “They have the right vision and model to build a successful program where young riders can benefit greatly.”

Andreu is one of the most popular and well-respected names in American professional cycling. He retired from racing at the end of 2000 after a 12-year professional career. During his racing career, which lasted from 1992 to 2000, he competed in the Tour de France nine times, represented the United States in two Olympic games and once was captain of US Postal. Andreu is now a commentator for Versus TV and can be seen alongside Phil Liggett and Bob Roll during the Tour de France each summer.

"Frankie is doing this more or less pro bono because he is very supportive of our entire developmental effort and he is interested in our quest for a full continental pro team in 2009 or 2010,” said Hunter Ziesing, ZteaM’s founder.  “We are honored and very appreciative that we have one of the most experienced riders in the world to lead us.”

ZteaM is a national cycling club supporting the growth of masters, elite, and youth cycling through club riding and racing. The group is funded by national and regional sponsors, and its own members. ZteaM regional chapters operate independently with a focus on supporting youth cycling programs in their areas. While ZteaM has a racing emphasis, its objective is to support all areas of cycling and to encourage family involvement by hosting social events for both cyclists and their families. ZteaM Cycling has largely focused on club riding and masters racing since 2004, but recently formed an Elite team which is managed by veteran riders Christian Kearney and Dave McCook, the current Scratch Race National Champion and 1994 USPRO Criterium Champion.
For more information about ZteaM, please visit www.zteamcycling.com.

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AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS TOUR OF PENNSYLVANIA
PRESENTED BY HIGHMARK HEALTHY HIGH 5®
UNVEILS OFFICIAL 2008 RACE JERSEYS

 

PHILADELPHIA – May 15, 2008 - Six special award jerseys will be presented to the world’s elite U25 cyclists who prove their mettle in the inaugural run of the 450-mile American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania presented by Highmark Healthy High 5®.  The six-day stage race, June 24-29, is a first of its kind event and the richest race in the world for U25 riders, the sport’s next generation of superstars.

Beginning in Philadelphia and traversing a historically significant route along the Forbes Trail that was forged in 1758 by British General John Forbes and Colonel George Washington, the race culminates in Pittsburgh as part of that city’s 250th anniversary celebration.   In addition to Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, the Tour’s host cities include Downingtown, Carlisle, Camp Hill, Bedford, Latrobe and Ligonier. 

The course route alternately favors sprinters and climbers, and now the 120 riders can vie for individual honors in these and several other categories with the six award jerseys, designed by American Eagle Outfitters and manufactured by California-based Voler Team Apparel.

Leader’s Jersey:
This jersey, presented by American Eagle Outfitters, will be awarded to the rider who has the lowest accumulated time across all six stages of the 2008 American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania presented by Highmark Healthy High 5® . Although a Leader’s jersey will be awarded at the end of each stage, the true contenders know the only one that matters is on the final podium. The “maillot jeune,” as it’s collectively known, is the fought-after jersey that all riders want on their shoulders.

Climber’s Jersey:
The best climbers in the race will battle for “King Of The Mountain” points over all the decisive climbs of the course. Riders with high power-to-weight ratios will propel themselves as fast as possible to all summits, looking to scoop up as many points as possible against rival climbers. The rider who has accumulated the most King Of The Mountain Points will be awarded the polka-dotted Best Climber’s Jersey, presented by VisitPA.com.

Most Aggressive:
For a select few riders, the pursuit of glory reigns supreme. This jersey is highly subjective and doesn’t get awarded based on points, but rather honors the rider with the greatest tenacity. One active rider, no doubt, will impress with his unending resolve, making him worthy of wearing the 2008 American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania Most Aggressive jersey.

Best Sprinter:
Strategically placed, intermediate sprints will see teams ushering their top fast-man to the front to take maximum points.  These sprints are often referred to as the “race within a race.”  Raw power and great positioning will reward only one rider with the famous, green Best Sprinter’s jersey.

Teamwork:
Whoever said cycling isn’t a team sport was wrong.  This jersey proves that cycling is a collective use of power and wit. Six young riders, each with an appointed role, will work together from start to finish to achieve many goals. The Teamwork Jersey, presented by Pittsburgh 250, will be awarded to the team most capable of controlling the race and its outcome from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh.

Best Young:
In a race of riders no older than 25, the Best Young Rider’s jersey, presented by Highmark Healthy High 5®, is a true testament to the next generation of cyclists. Look for the rider wearing this jersey to be as young as 17, but strong enough to snag points in the King of the Mountains, Sprinter or Overall points competition. The battle for the Best Young Jersey will be among an elite, international, Espoir field.  Only one will go home with the Best Young honors.

Currently, 18 teams have been selected to compete for the $150,000 Tour of Pennsylvania purse.  They include seven international squads from Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Ireland, Netherlands and South Africa.  Two additional international teams will be named to the field shortly.    The 11 selected American professional and elite amateur teams are based in Arizona, California (2), Colorado, Minnesota, New England, New York, North Carolina (2), Ohio and Pennsylvania.  A wait list has been established with the possibility of adding two more domestic teams if the field can be expanded from 120 riders to 132.

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Highmark Healthy High 5® Finish Line Festivals Dot Tour of Pennsylvania Race Route

Events Promote Children's Health and Wellness Through Physical Activity, Nutrition

 

PITTSBURGH, May 12, 2008 – Highmark Healthy High 5® Finish Line Festivals are planned in five of the six stage stops of the American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania, presented by Highmark Healthy High 5®.

The Tour of Pennsylvania is a signature event of Pittsburgh 250, the yearlong celebration of the 250th anniversary of the naming of Pittsburgh. Sanctioned by the International Cycling Union, the six-day stage race covers approximately 450 miles of Pennsylvania’s rolling hills and city streets from June 24 – June 29, 2008.

Finish Line Festivals, which are free and open to the community, will be held in Carlisle, Bedford, Latrobe, Pittsburgh’s South Side and Downtown Pittsburgh . Each Finish Line Festival will include:

The festivals provide a front-row seat to the Tour, which features world-class cyclists under 25 years old, as they race to the finish line of each stage. Festival activities are designed to provide fun and engaging activities for kids that promote health and wellness. Along with their families, kids can learn Zumba, a dance-aerobics workout set to Latin music; test their mettle on rotating climbing walls; or try their hand at Dance Dance Revolution, a game that pits players against computer-directed dance steps.

“The Finish Line Festivals are a great way for families and kids to take part in games and demonstrations that show just how much fun it is to be active and eat healthy,” said Aaron Walton, senior vice president of corporate affairs at Highmark. “It’s also a fantastic way to celebrate Pittsburgh 250 with a front-row seat to watch some of the world’s best, young cyclists. Families looking for fun ways to approach a healthy lifestyle will certainly find it through the Tour of Pennsylvania and Highmark Healthy High 5® Finish Line Festivals.”

In addition to the many activities offered at each Finish Line Festival, several organizations will have exhibits. For more information about the Finish Line Festivals, visit www.highmarkhealthyhigh5.org/festivals/index.shtml.

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The 2008 American Eagle Tour of Pennsylvania will be an international UCI
sanctioned 2.2 category stage race for U25 riders ONLY. Twenty teams of six
riders under age 25 (maximum racing age 24 in 2008 – birth year of 1984 or younger) will be selected by race organizers from eligible teams in these categories: Continental Professional Teams, National Teams approved by national federations, sponsored club teams (category 1 and 2 license holders only).

FACT SHEET FOR TEAMS

Award jersey info

TOUR OF PA TEAM SELECTION IS COMPLETE!

Final selection for the inaugural American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania Presented By Highmark Healthy High 5® is complete. Making the cut for this first-of-its kind under-25 cycling stage race are 20 of the world’s best development squads, each looking to make its mark during a daunting six-day journey from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, June 24-29. No less than nine countries and five continents – North and South America, Australia, Africa and Europe -- will be represented in the 120-rider field.

Notable formations include the Belgian-based Johan Bruyneel Cycling Academy team, South Africa’s Konica Minolta Continental Cycling Team, and Colorado-based VMG-Felt, the development arm of Slipstream-Chipotle, one of two teams slated to represent America at this year’s Tour de France.

The final team granted entry into this prestigious race was Team VRC Racing/NOW-MS Society, a Los Angeles-based squad that’s dedicated to helping develop tomorrow’s top pros and raising awareness about multiple sclerosis.  Local hopes rest with Pennsylvania’s entry, the PA Lightning.

Beginning on hallowed cycling ground in Philadelphia, the American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania follows a historically rich route that passes through towns and countryside that roughly follow Forbes Road (U.S. 30), which was forged in 1758 by British General John Forbes and Colonel George Washington. The race culminates six days later in Pittsburgh as part of the city’s 250th anniversary celebration. 

Seven Pennsylvania towns and cities will host the official race starts and finishes, with communities along the way gaining a first-hand look at the world’s best young talent in the kind of competition that is normally found only in Europe.  In addition to Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, the host cities include Downingtown, Carlisle, Camp Hill, Bedford, Latrobe and Ligonier.

The Tour of Pennsylvania offers $150,000 in total prize money, making it the richest in the world for under-25-class riders. It’s also the only UCI sanctioned race in the U.S. geared specifically to under-25 riders. That combination stimulated worldwide interest and applications from several dozen teams followed. But only a select 20 made the final cut of what will be a historic six days of racing.

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ORGANIZERS ANNOUNCE ROUTE DETAILS FOR INAUGURALAMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS TOUR OF PENNSYLVANIA
PRESENTED BY HIGHMARK HEALTHY HIGH 5®

PHILADELPHIA - April 30, 2008 – With 18 domestic and international teams already selected to compete in the inaugural running of the American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania Presented By Highmark Healthy High 5®, race organizers today released the details of the demanding 450-mile, six-day race route.  A complete field of 20 to 22 teams will compete June 24 through June 29 in this first-of-its kind U-25 cycling stage race that will showcase the sport’s next generation of superstars. 

The cyclists will battle for the leader’s jersey along a historically rich route.  Beginning on hallowed cycling ground in Philadelphia, the route passes through towns and countryside that roughly follow Forbes Road (U.S. 30), which was forged in 1758 by British General John Forbes and Colonel George Washington.  The race culminates in Pittsburgh as part of the city’s 250th anniversary celebration. 

Seven Pennsylvania towns and cities will host the official race starts and finishes, with communities along the way gaining a first-hand look at the world’s best young talent in the kind of competition that is normally found only in Europe.  In addition to Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, the host cities include Downingtown, Carlisle, Camp Hill, Bedford, Latrobe and Ligonier. 

“The Tour of Pennsylvania offers $150,000 in total prize money, the richest in the world for Espoir class riders, plus it is the only UCI sanctioned race in the U.S. specifically for riders under age 25,” said David Chauner, Pro Cycling Tour president and executive director of the race that is being organized as part of a statewide celebration of Pittsburgh’s 250th anniversary.  “That combination has stimulated worldwide interest and applications from many more squads than could be accepted for the race.  Our technical team has designed a route that will test the endurance, power and technical skill of these young athletes who are on the road to becoming cycling’s next Olympians and Tour de France competitors.”   

Highlights of the 2008 American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania Presented By Highmark Healthy High 5® include:

Stage 1:  Prologue Time Trials/Philadelphia Criterium (Tuesday, June 24, 2008)
(Start time: 10 a.m. for time trials; 6 p.m. for criterium)  With start and finish lines in front of majestic Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park for both the time trial and criterium circuits, Stage 1 places competitors on the same ground as historic events like the 1947 National Cycling Championships, the famous Keystone Open and the Pennsylvania State Track Championships.  The two-mile time trial circuit incorporates the Memorial Hall concourse as well as Philly’s scenic Martin Luther King Drive.  The 1.2 mile criterium, which will total 25 miles, will also play out on the Memorial Hall concourse.  Day One will conclude with an auto transfer to Downingtown.

Stage 2:  Downingtown to Carlisle (Wednesday, June 25, 2008) 
(Start time: 10 a.m.)  A 91-mile road race, Stage 2 takes riders through the heart of Amish country where they’ll likely find themselves pedaling alongside Lancaster County’s distinctive horse-and-buggy transportation.  This course begins on mostly rolling terrain, with smooth roads giving the riders a day to ease their way into the race.  However, two intermediate sprints will test their power in Ephrata and Hershey.   The course will also allow the riders to find their climbing legs with a 2.5 mile subtle, yet all-important King of the Mountain (KOM) sprint at the top of Spring Hill.  The final sprint will be fast with a straight lead-in (and great vantage point for spectators) to the finish line in Carlisle in front of Dickinson College.  (Auto transfer to Camp Hill.)

Stage 3:  Camp Hill to Bedford (Thursday, June 26, 2008)
(Start time: 10 a.m.)  Day 3 starts in Camp Hill at presenting sponsor Highmark’s campus there.  This stage features a 104-mile road race with a classic European Road race progression.  Riders will roll into the race easily for about 37 miles, with sprints in Carlisle and Chambersburg, before ascending the first of two mountain passes.  The first KOM begins at mile 66 and climbs 3.5 miles to the top of Tuscarora Summit, a climb that is only the beginning of some very difficult passes to come.   The final KOM is at mile 82 at Sideling Hill – this climb is about 3 miles long with an elevation gain of 2,500 feet.   After the KOM, the riders will descend at speeds of 50 mph, negotiating some very technical turns, plummeting down to the finish line in the town of Bedford.

Stage 4:  Bedford to Latrobe (Friday, June 27, 2008)
(Start time: 12 noon)   This 60-mile stage will push the riders to their limits with the most elevation gain and the hardest of all climbs in the event.  After departing the town of Bedford, the roll will be easy for only 15 miles before turning upward for a difficult climb to Bald Knob Summit, the first KOM for the day.  Bald Knob Summit is a 5.5 mile climb with grades of 10% to15 % and will surely decide the day’s top climbers, as they make their way up and over the Allegheny Mountains.   After a slight rolling descent, the riders will again go up hill and crest the Laurel Hill Summit at mile 40 for the second KOM of the day.  This 2 mile climb is shorter but with a very intense mountain pass that will also see grades of 15%.  The descent into the last leg of the day will be fast, but will also have a flat section, rolling through Ligonier and following the river into Latrobe with a tricky sprint finish in the downtown area.  This day is likely to be the hardest stage and will certainly separate the field, revealing who the potential leaders will be for the week. 

Stage 5:  Ligonier to Pittsburgh (Saturday, June 28, 2008)
(Auto transfer from Latrobe to Ligonier.  Start time: 12 noon) This 83-mile stage will give the riders a more subdued ride as they enter into the City of Pittsburgh.  The route will follow a mostly rolling course with one short KOM at mile 21 and one last intermediate sprint at mile 38 on the outskirts of Latrobe.  The race will continue through Pittsburgh’s East End and into the City’s historic South Side with a sprint finish at the headquarters of title sponsor American Eagle Outfitters.  Spectators should be prepared for a thrilling, four-corner city neighborhood sprint finish.

Stage 6:  Pittsburgh Criterium (Sunday, June 29, 2008)
(Start time: 5 p.m.)   The culmination of the Tour of Pennsylvania will be a 50 mile, classic criterium in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh.  A four-corner style course with a slight rise in part of the route, the criterium will offer dynamite spectating for the final day of this history-making, six-day journey now known as the Tour of Pennsylvania.

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AMERICAN TEAMS ANNOUNCED FORAMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS TOUR OF PENNSYLVANIA
PRESENTED BY HIGHMARK HEALTHY HIGH 5®
 

PHILADELPHIA (April 3, 2008) –  Eleven Elite Cycling Teams from around the United States have been selected from over fifty applications to compete in the American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania Presented by Highmark Healthy High 5®, a U-25 cycling stage race taking place from June 24 thru June 29, 2008.  The lucky eleven will face the seven international squads from Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Ireland, Netherlands and South Africa that were named on March 18. With two more international squads to be announced shortly, organizers will reach the event’s full field size of twenty, six-man teams by mid-April.  A wait list has been established with the possibility of adding two more domestic teams if the field can be expanded from 120 riders to 132.

The selected American professional and elite amateur teams are based in Arizona, California (2), Colorado, New England, Minnesota, North Carolina (2), New York and Ohio.  Representing Pennsylvania will be the PA Lightning, a squad that includes former junior national champions, national team members and intercollegiate stars.  The selected teams are peppered with some of the USA’s most talented young riders including State, National and Intercollegiate Championship medalists.  Each team must name its roster of six riders for the Tour of PA by mid-May.

The six day stage race offers $150,000 in total prize money, the richest in the world for Espoir class riders and has stimulated young American squads to make sure they are fully prepared to take on the World’s best.  Typical is California’s ZTeaM, a squad that has hired nine-time Tour de France veteran and two-time Olympian, Frankie Andreu to manage the team and make sure it’s up for the challenge.

“This is such a great opportunity to showcase cycling’s up and coming talent and to give our riders the chance to compete at the top international level on home soil.  Normally, we’d have to go to Europe for a challenging stage race like this,” said Andreu, whose twelve year racing career took him from amateur competition in the U.S. to being a top support rider for Lance Armstrong’s Discovery Cycling Team in the Tour de France.  “Plus this race gives our young riders the opportunity to lead teams as opposed to work for older pros.  You can be assured that professional team directors from around the world will be scouting the field for the next generation of top talent.”

The American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania Presented by Highmark Healthy High 5® -- begins with a prologue time trial and circuit race in Philadelphia on June 24th and will have start/finish locations in Downingtown, Carlisle, Camp Hill, Bedford, Latrobe and Ligonier before concluding in Pittsburgh on June 29 after nearly 450 miles of racing.  The race is a signature sporting event for Pittsburgh 250, a commission established to celebrate Pittsburgh’s 250th anniversary in 2008.

Selected teams to date:

International Teams
1.        Argentina (ARG)	Esco-Telefonicos
2.        Australia (AUS)	Praties Cycling Team
3.        Belgium (BEL)	Johan Bruyneel Cycling Academy
4.        Canada (CAN)	Team RACE
5.        Ireland (IRE)	Pezula Racing
6.        Netherlands (NED)	Global Cycling
7.        South Africa (RSA)	Konica Minolta Cycling Team
8.        Germany (GER)	(TBD)
9.        International (TBD)
Domestic Teams
10.      Arizona	Team Waste Management/Racelab U23
11.      California	California Giant Strawberry Farms
12.      California	ZTeaM
13.      Colorado	VMG/Felt
14.      Minnesota	Kelly Benefit Strategies/Medifast Pro Cycling
15.      New England	Fiordifrutta Cycling Team
16.      New York	Sakonnet Technology U25 Team
17.      North Carolina	DLP Racing/Texas Instruments
18.      North Carolina	Time Pro Cycling
19.      Ohio	Team Inferno Pro Cycling
20.      Pennsylvania	PA Lightning

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EXPO OPPORTUNITIES NOW AVAILABLE FOR  BICYCLE RACE THAT CROSSES PENNSYLVANIA

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. (March 20, 2008) – Consumer product companies and community  organizations wanting direct access to active adults and families will find them by the thousands as part of the all new American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania Presented by Highmark Healthy High 5 ® .  The six-day event is a first-of-its-kind cycling stage race featuring national and international riders, ages 18 to 24, that will run June 24 to June 29, 2008, from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh. 

The American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania Presented by Highmark Healthy High 5 ® will start off in Philadelphia on June 24 th with a circuit race.  On Day 2, the world's best young cyclists will tackle challenging terrain as they continue on their 500 mile journey, riding from Downingtown to Carlisle.  Day 3 features a Camp Hill start and a finish in Bedford.  Bedford also serves as the starting point for Day 4 which will end in Latrobe.  Day 5 goes off from Ligonier and ends in Pittsburgh, and a culminating circuit race is scheduled for Pittsburgh on Day 6, June 29 th .  

Tour of Pennsylvania Expos will welcome fans in the finish towns of Philadelphia, Carlisle, Bedford, Latrobe and Pittsburgh.  The expos will attract cycling, fitness and sports enthusiasts looking for the latest information on cycling and sporting equipment, apparel, nutrition, recreation, community and family events and more.

“Expo visitors love samples, demos and interactive exhibits,” said Jerry Casale, chief operating officer of Pro Cycling Tour, which is organizing the race along with ISM-USA and Pittsburgh 250.  “So for companies that want to show off their products and services directly to this active market, the Tour of Pennsylvania Expos are a dream come true,” he said.  “Expo exhibitors enjoy the benefits of meeting consumers personally, of putting products and samples directly into their customers hands, and of creating a real memory point for those products because it's all happening in the midst of a distinctive sporting event experience,” added Casale.

Access to these discerning consumers is surprisingly affordable, especially since the expo locations are situated near the coveted start/finish line action. Booths range from $700 to $2,500 depending upon the specific race city, exhibitor category and size of the reserved area.  Discounts are available for non-profit groups and for exhibiting in multiple Tour of Pennsylvania cities.  In addition, special promotional programs can be developed with PCT's Expo coordinator. 

For more information on the Tour of Pennsylvania Expo opportunities, click here:  http://procyclingtour.info/VTP2008EX.aspx

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FIRST INTERNATIONAL TEAMS SELECTED FOR AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS TOUR OF PENNSYLVANIA
PRESENTED BY HIGHMARK HEALTHY HIGH 5®

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. (March 18, 2008) –  Cycling teams from seven nations have been selected to compete in the American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania, presented by Highmark Healthy High 5®, a U-25 cycling stage race taking place from June 24 thru June 29, 2008, which is part of  the year-long celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the naming of Pittsburgh.  At least thirteen more six-man squads will be named by the end of March as organizers continue to review applications received from over fifty professional and elite amateur cycling squads from the U.S. and abroad.

The first seven teams selected are from Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Ireland, Netherlands and South Africa.  Also being considered are teams from Germany, France, Italy and Spain as well as domestic professional and elite amateur teams from a dozen states across the U.S.

“The selection process is complicated with many more teams wanting to enter than can be accepted,” said David Chauner, executive race director of the six day international stage race. “The goal is to select a well-balanced, competitive field made up of teams with experienced young riders who represent the future of the sport.”  According to Chauner, each team will include riders who have represented their country in international competition, won national age category championships and are destined to future greatness in the sport's flagship events like the Olympics and Tour de France.  “Since all racers must be 24 or under, this is an exciting way to identify the next wave of superstars, not unlike what March Madness is to the NBA,” said Chauner.

Just being invited to the dance is a major accomplishment since the Tour of Pennsylvania offers $150,000 in total prize money, the richest in the world for Espoir class riders.  Plus Host Presenters are being recruited by Pittsburgh 250 race organizers, to help defray travel, lodging and meal costs of the international teams coming to Pennsylvania for the weeklong event.

The American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania Presented by Highmark Healthy High 5® -- begins with a prologue time trial and circuit race in Philadelphia on June 24 th and will have start/finish locations in Downingtown, Carlisle, Camp Hill, Bedford, Latrobe and Ligonier before concluding in Pittsburgh on June 29 after over 450 miles of racing.  The race is a signature sporting event for Pittsburgh 250, a commission established to celebrate Pittsburgh's 250 th anniversary in 2008.

First selected international teams include:
Country Team
Argentina (ARG)        Esco-Telefonicos
Australia (AUS)          Praties Cycling Team                                                             
Belgium (BEL)           Johann Bruyneel Cycling Academy
Canada (CN)              Team RACE
Ireland (IRE)              Pezula Racing                        
Netherlands (NED)     Global Cycling
South Africa (RSA)    Konica Minolta Cycling Team

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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FROM ACROSS PENNSYLVANIA FOR THE AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS

TOUR OF PENNSYLVANIA PRESENTED BY HIGHMARK HEALTHY HIGH 5®

PHILADELPHIA (March 7, 2008) – Planning is well underway for the all new American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania Presented by Highmark Healthy High 5®, a U-25 cycling stage race taking place June 24 thru June 29, 2008 -- and you have the opportunity to become a part of this first-of its-kind world-class cycling event!

The public is invited to experience the excitement of international cycling first-hand by volunteering to help in the start/finish cities that make up the American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania Presented by Highmark Healthy High 5® -- a six-day, 450 mile stage race across Pennsylvania from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh.  The race is a signature sporting event for Pittsburgh 250, a commission established to celebrate Pittsburgh's 250 th anniversary in 2008, and is the world's richest cycling race for elite international cyclists in the espoir class.  (“Espoir,” French for “hope,” denotes the race is for up-and-coming riders under the age of 25).

The Tour of Pennsylvania will showcase the world's best young cyclists and will feature at least twenty, six-rider teams, including several who are expected to participate in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and the Tour de France.  The race, which begins with a prologue time trial in Philadelphia on June 24 th , will have start/finish locations in the following cities across the state; Downingtown, Carlisle, Camp Hill, Bedford, Latrobe, Ligonier and Pittsburgh.

“We always have room for helping hands and smiling faces,” says Jerry Casale, chief operating officer of Pro Cycling Tour, which has partnered with ISM-USA of Pittsburgh to produce the event. “Whether you're a die-hard cycling fan or just a fan of the outdoors, you are welcome to join us for what promises to be an incredible experience for the athletes, the fans and all of the cities that will be part of this historic race.  Show off your community pride and help us host safe and memorable race stages for everyone!”

Hundreds of volunteers will be needed in the following areas:  course marshals, traveling marshals, stage crew, foreign language interpreters, hospitality, marketing and public relations, security and driver support. 

Click here for the sign up form:  VOLUNTEER SIGN UP FORM , If you wish a complete description of the positions, click here:  VOLUNTEER POSITION DESCRIPTIONS For further information, call 610-676-0390 ext. 106.

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MAYOR TO MAYOR

 

Luke Ravenstahl, Mayor, City of Pittsburgh (left) and  Dan Onorato Allegheny County Executive (right) present Michael Nutter, Mayor of Philadelphia (center) with an American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania presented by Highmark Healthy High 5 jersey.  Twenty teams will compete  in the six-day, 450-mile  Philadelphia (beginning June 24)  to Pittsburgh (June 29,)  stage bike race for the richest purse in history for an under 25 cycling race.  Free Health and lifestyle expos with entertainment will be open to the community at each stage

 

 

 

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Dutch Cyclists Are First Invited to Elite U.S. Race:
The Tour of Pennsylvania

Grand Finale in Pittsburgh Slated As Part of the Region's 250 th Anniversary Celebration

AMSTERDAM , The Netherlands, Jan. 28, 2008 – The Dutch Elite-class Global Cycling Team is the first international team invited to participate in the June 2008 American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania, presented by Highmark Healthy High 5. The six-day stage race from June 24 to 29 is the world's richest cycling race for elite international cyclists under age 25, featuring $150,000 in prize money.

Race sponsors and a delegation of business, civic and government leaders from Pittsburgh , Pa. , including Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, extended the invitation today at the Olympic Stadium in Amsterdam . Considered to be among the world's best development teams of young cyclists, the Dutch squad now begins the qualifying process to name its team of six riders who will compete in the Tour of Pennsylvania.

The 450-mile Tour of Pennsylvania begins in Philadelphia and ends in Pittsburgh , where the grand finale will be part of Pittsburgh 250, a yearlong celebration of the 250 th anniversary of the naming of Pittsburgh .

The UCI and USA Cycling have sanctioned the race, which is expected to draw 10 international and 10 U.S. teams of six riders each, for a field of 120 racers. More than 40 international teams, from countries including Great Britain , Italy , France , Belgium , Holland , Canada and Mexico , have expressed interest in receiving an invitation to compete. The tour is expected to include several cyclists who may participate in the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympic Games and the Tour de France .

“The route's combination of rolling hills, city streets, and steep, mountainous climbs, makes it the ideal setting for a race,” said race organizer David Chauner, Olympic cyclist and president of Pro Cycling Tour, one of the top U.S. race promotion companies in the United States . “It will truly test the abilities of every rider on the tour.”

The Pittsburgh delegation that extended the invitation is in Amsterdam as part of a three-week European tour that is a partnership between the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, which is promoting Southwestern Pennsylvania to European business leaders as part of its 250 th anniversary celebration.

The PSO's upcoming Jan. 29 performance in Amsterdam follows the Stedelijk Museum 's Andy Warhol exhibition, which closed Jan. 13. The Andy Warhol Museum is located in Pittsburgh , the hometown of the famous pop artist.

“As one of the top countries in the world for cycling, Amsterdam is a natural choice to extend the first international invitation to race in the Tour of PA,” said Mike Langley, chief executive officer of the Allegheny Conference on Community Development. “ Amsterdam is also an established cultural center. These same attributes are beginning to converge in Pittsburgh . Compared to all the other cities in Europe that the PSO is visiting on this trip, Amsterdam is the best match for what Pittsburgh is today and where it is heading in the future.

“With the finish line in Pittsburgh , the Tour of PA also provides an excellent look at Pittsburgh , which has been named American's Most Livable City because of its low cost of living, multiple recreational and cultural opportunities, its many universities and its diverse job opportunities.”

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TEAM APPLICATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED

BY TOUR OF PA ORGANIZERS

20 Teams To Be Selected for World's Richest Under-25 Cycling Race

NORRISTOWN, Pa. (Dec. 12, 2007) – 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 sp or t's up and coming talent,” said Jerry Casale, chief operating officer of Pro Cycling Tour, LLC, the company that is or ganizing the race, along with ISM-USA and Pittsburgh 250. “In fact, we're inviting at least 20 six-rider teams of the w or ld'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 .

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World's Richest Espoir Stage Race Across Pennsylvania in 2008
Six Day Tour Will Draw U25 Teams from Around the World

HARRISBURG , PA , May 16, 2007 – Officials of Governor Edward G. Rendell's administration joined business leaders and community organizers today to announce the American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania, presented by Highmark Healthy High 5 , an Espoir-only stage race expected to draw hundreds of thousands of spectators and cycling enthusiasts to Pennsylvania in June 2008.

“The American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania will help spotlight the commonwealth's scenic countryside and rich history like nothing ever before,” said Governor Rendell. “We expect each city and town along the race route to benefit from an unprecedented influx of spectators from across the country and around the world.”

Sponsored by American Eagle Outfitters, the leading lifestyle brand among 15-to-25 year-olds, which is based in Pittsburgh, and Highmark Healthy High 5, a five-year, $100 million initiative of the Highmark Foundation designed to promote healthy lifestyles among children and adolescents, the tour will invite at least twenty, six-rider teams of the world's best young cyclists in the espoir class (under age 25), including several who are expected to participate in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and Tour de France.

The International Cycling Union (UCI) sanctioned tour will begin with a Prologue Time Trial in Philadelphia and cover approximately 500 miles over six days (June 24-29, 2008), with finish-line events in Philadelphia , Carlisle, Bedford and Ligonier, and a race grand finale in Pittsburgh to help celebrate the southwestern Pennsylvania region's 250 th 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 U25 riders.

“Sponsoring this tour is a natural fit for American Eagle Outfitters, and reflects the company's commitment to the Pittsburgh region,” said Susan McGalla, president and chief merchandising officer of American Eagle Outfitters and member of the Pittsburgh 250 Commission.  “We're proud to be involved in a global sports event that our employees and customers can get excited about.”

The tour's 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 in town circuits make it the ideal format for a stage race,” said Jerry Casale , chief operating officer of Pro Cycling Tour, LLC, the company that will help organize the race, along with ISM-USA and Pittsburgh 250. “Plus we're thrilled that the race will showcase cycling's wave of new, up and coming talent.”

In addition to inviting Espoir teams from around the world, organizers expect to include several U.S. teams made up entirely of American riders under 25 like USA Cycling's Development Team and the newly-formed Pennsylvania Lightning, an all-Pennsylvania squad being organized by PCT. “The goal is to field a top team that will represent the state's homegrown talent and give Pennsylvanians their own local favorites to follow,” said PCT's CEO, David Chauner.

The theme of healthy youth will be promoted at the conclusion of each stage through the Highmark Healthy High 5 Finish Line Festival, a community health and wellness festival designed to engage local communities in learning ways to adopt active living and healthy eating habits.

“Highmark Healthy High 5 is designed to promote healthy lifestyles among children and adolescents,” said Yvonne Cook, president of the Highmark Foundation. “The Tour provides an opportunity to engage children and families in the excitement of cycling and showcases the statewide opportunities for people to be outdoors, to be active and to have fun while doing it – all important elements of leading a healthy life.”

The Pennsylvania Tourism Office, another major sponsor of the tour, will market the race through www.visitpa.com , working with regional tourism agencies across the state where Tour venues are located.

“The tour provides a unique opportunity to showcase Pennsylvania 's historic cities and towns,” said Mickey Rowley, deputy secretary for Tourism, Film and Economic Development Marketing. “We encourage people to spend part of their summer in 2008 visiting the communities along the race route and all that they have to offer.” Rowley also stated that Pennsylvania supports many initiatives that encourage and promote cycling including www.visitpa.com sponsorship of the Commerce Bank Triple Crown of Cycling in the Lehigh Valley , Reading and Philadelphia , an elite mountain bike team and the development of a statewide network of bicycle routes and trails.

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

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Technical Directors Named for Tour of PA

Pro Cycling Tour (PCT) has named Robin Zellner and Andrea Bialick, two veteran cycling experts, as the technical directors for the U-25 American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania, presented by Highmark Healthy High 5.

"We are thrilled that Robin and Andrea are heading up the PCT technical team,” said Jerry Casale, chief operating officer of PCT.  “Robin has great experience as a former pro and team manager, and his relationships in the sport will be very important to our races.  Andrea's organizational skills, attention to detail and the respect she has from teams and officials complete the team we need to handle our top UCI events."

Zellner and Bialick will be responsible for the many technical aspects of the American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania. In addition to serving as liaisons with race officials, they will oversee all team invitations and logistics, technical regulations, sanction applications and more.

"The formation of a new technical team is another step in PCT's commitment to improve the professionalism of our events.  Robin and Andrea represent the higher standards we strive for as we continue to build a bright future of better races and better cycling in the U.S.," added David Chauner, chief executive officer of PCT.

Zellner, former owner and general manager of the Kodak Gallery/Sierra Nevada Pro Cycling Team, brings over 30 years of cycling expertise to his new role as PCT's technical director.  From promoter to manager to professional cyclist, Zellner has experienced cycling from a multitude of perspectives and, as such, is poised to meet the needs of PCT and the teams participating in the '08 events.

Bialick returns to PCT after providing technical assistance for the 2007 Commerce Bank Triple Crown of Cycling series.  She brings over 18 years of experience in race administration and timing for ski races, as well as five years of experience handling logistics and data management for teams, officials and staff for the Univest Grand Prix and US Open Cycling Championships.

Zellner, who decided to turn pro in the mid-eighties because of the Philadelphia International Championship -- and then went on to race in the Philadelphia event from 1986-1989 said, “This race was, and still is, the main focus of professional cycling in this country.  I'm looking forward to using my experience and knowledge to assist PCT.  It's great to be part of a terrific organization and add to their reputation as great event organizers.”

“I am really impressed with the history and experience that PCT has in professional cycling and their dedication to the future of the sport,” said Bialick.  “Providing technical direction for PCT allows me to contribute my talents to an industry for which I have a passion, and it gives me the incredible opportunity to further develop my role within the sport.”