Tour of Pennsylvania selects initial teams

The new Tour of Pennsylvania, a stage race geared toward U25 men, announced an initial roster of international teams for its event June 24-29. At least thirteen more six-man squads will be named by the end of March.

The race's first seven teams hail from Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Ireland, Netherlands and South Africa. Also being considered are teams from Germany, France, Italy and Spain as well as domestic professional and elite amateur teams from a dozen states across the US.

"The selection process is complicated with many more teams wanting to enter than can be accepted," said David Chauner, executive race director of the six-day race. "The goal is to select a well-balanced, competitive field made up of teams with experienced young riders who represent the future of the sport."

The richest espoir race will be part of a year-long celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the naming of the city of Pittsburgh.

Teams for Tour of Pennsylvania: Esco-Telefonicos (Argentina), Praties Cycling Team (Australia), Johann Bruyneel Cycling Academy (Belgium), Team RACE (Canada), Pezula Racing (Ireland), Global Cycling (The Netherlands), Konica Minolta Cycling Team (South Africa)