Races sought for Nature Valley Pro calendar

A national programme is offering race promoters to join Nature Valley Pro calendar. The top riders of the races on the calendar will be invited to the 2009 edition of the Nature Valley Grand Prix. That race takes place in Minnesota, from June 10-14, 2009.

Entering its second year, the "Nature Valley Pro Ride" will select amateur men and women at regional races around the United States to become part of a pair of Nature Valley composite teams for the 11th annual edition of the five-day stage race.

"This is a chance for a race promoter to raise the participation and visibility of their event at no extra cost," Nature Valley Grand Prix Race Director David LaPorte said. "As for the riders who are selected, they can look forward to racing in front of huge crowds and being treated like a rock star at our event."

Amateur racers (category 1 men and category 1,2 women) who qualify at a Nature Valley Pro Ride event receive a "battlefield promotion" that earns them free entry to the race, travel stipends, team clothing, housing, ground transportation and staff support for their composite team.

"We're looking for the top regional races who want to take their game to a higher level," LaPorte said. "We'll consider road races, criteriums and stage races, as long as they get strong fields. And our promotional programmes will make those fields even stronger."

To be considered for the 2009 Nature Valley Pro Ride, a race must be permitted through USA Cycling and take place no later than June 7. Preference will be given to races that take place between February and mid-May. Interested promoters must submit their application by Dec. 15. More details and a downloadable application can be found at www.naturevalleyproride.com.

The 2009 Nature Valley Pro Ride schedule will be announced Jan. 5, 2009.