Commerce Bank Triple Crown announces race dates

Commerce Bank Triple Crown of Cycling organiser Pro Cycling Tour LLC has announced the 2008 race names and dates for its all Pennsylvanian international pro cycling series. The 2008 series will start off with an all new event, the Lehigh Valley Classic on Tuesday, June 3.

"There's always something new and exciting to look forward to during the Triple Crown Race Series," said David Chauner, Pro Cycling Tour director. "Thanks to our extremely enthusiastic sponsor, Commerce Bank, and the tremendous support of the Commonwealth of PA and the cities of Philadelphia, Reading and Allentown, the 2008 series is shaping up to be one of the most successful series in our event history."

The three Classic events expect to draw over 400,000 spectators, 400 professional cyclists from 23 countries, close to 1,000 amateur cyclists in ancillary events, and over 60 expo exhibitors which will attract more than 50,000 visitors, according to Pro Cycling Tour LLC.

The Philadelphia International Championship will celebrate its 24th year in 2008 and its companion women's race, the Liberty Classic, will celebrate its 15th anniversary.

Triple Crown dates and venues:
Commerce Bank Lehigh Valley Classic: Tuesday, June 3 , 2008
Commerce Bank Reading Classic: Thursday, June 5, 2008
Commerce Bank Liberty Classic: Sunday, June 8, 2008
Commerce Bank Philadelphia International Championship Sunday, June 8, 2008