Mt. Hood Classic offers travel grants to women's teams

With a commitment to take women's cycling to a whole new level, the Mt. Hood Cycling Classic has partnered with Taco Del Mar restaurants to once again offer travel grants to all Pro 1-2 women's teams planning to compete at this year's event, scheduled to take place from May 29-June 3, 2007. The grants are up to $500 cash and are available to Pro 1-2 women's teams of between four and six riders. A total of 10 grants will be distributed for this year to assist in travel costs and expenses.

"We are excited at the tremendous opportunities in the US for men's cycling with the creation of the new pro tour. Unfortunately Pro/Elite women have not had those same opportunities," stated Mt. Hood Cycling Classic event director Chad Sperry. "We have a real passion to grow women's participation in the sport and maximize opportunities for women. This event is just too good not to get more elite women involved."

This year's Mt. Hood Cycling Classic will provide one of the most challenging women's races in the US and Canada. Spanning six days and six stages, competitors will cover 285 miles of racing and 25,000 feet of climbing. NRC points and nearly $10,000 will be up for grabs to the women.

For more information regarding this grant program or to receive an application, contact women's race director Chad Sperry at mhcc@gorge.net or for more info on the race log on at www.mthoodcyclingclassic.com.