Univest expands to UCI stage race

Organisers of the Univest Grand Prix have expanded this year's event, adding a team time trial to make the event a two-day UCI stage race. The new stage will take place in Allentown, Pennsylvania on Friday, September 11, followed by the Univest Grand Prix road race in Souderton the next day.

John Eustice, the race promoter, worked with the UCI and USA Cycling to re-classify the event from a 1.2 one-day race to the 2.2 stage race.

"We think this dynamic new format will prove to be very exciting for both spectators at the races and television viewers who can watch the races live on WFMZ Channel 69 and Universal Sports."

The new team time trial will cover two laps of a tough and technical 3.8 mile loop through Allentown's Center City. The following day's 100-mile race will test riders with 6,000 feet of climbing over the 60-mile opening loop through Montgomery County's rolling hills and 10-laps of the finishing circuit in Souderton.

Last year's race was won by Garmin's Lucas Euser, who endured pounding rain from the remnants of Hurrican Hannah to claim victory ahead of Swede Frederick Ericsson.

Racing concludes on Sunday, September 13, with the non-UCI classified Univest Grand Prix Doylestown Criterium.

Fans can take part in the fun with the Cyclosportif 100K recreational ride on Saturday, as well as a Family Fun Zone at the Univest Plaza in Souderton and races for children in Souderton and Doylestown.