First-ever collegiate all star women's team for Nature Valley GP

Top female collegiate cyclists will come together from universities across the US to compete as a part of the first-ever Ryan Collegiate All-Star team at the Nature Valley Grand Prix in Minnesota from June 20 - 24 thanks to a partnership between race organizers and USA Cycling.

The team will be sponsored by Ryan Companies, a development and construction company. Members will be selected at the USA Cycling Collegiate Road National Championships held May 10 - 13 in Lawrence, Kansas. Based on the final omnium standings, the four division one and four division two riders, each from a different collegiate team, who are not already attending the race as part of another team, will comprise the squad.

"Each rider will be allowed to race in her own collegiate club jersey presenting a unique opportunity for college and university clubs to gain remarkable exposure," said Daniel Matheny, USA Cycling's National Collegiate Manager. "It will also be a tremendous opportunity for talented collegiate riders to gain experience and respect on a national level and for fans to line the streets and cheer on their alma maters."

The selection honours for the NRC stage race come with a free entry, host housing, a team manager, an operating budget, clothing, and a travel stipend.

"This isn't just an honour for the best collegiate women cyclists," added Matheny. "The team managers will be watching and collegiate women who ride well have a great shot at national recognition."