US Gran Prix of Cyclo-cross kicks off this weekend

With a world class field of athletes scheduled to race and rain falling in Louisville this week, the excitement could not be greater for the first weekend of the US Gran Prix of cyclo-cross presented by Crank Brothers - Papa John's Derby City Cup presented by Toyota. "We have been completely blown away by the tremendous support and excitement shown by Papa John's, the local cycling community and the Greater Louisville Sports Commission in kicking-off the USGP series in Kentucky," said Bruce Fina, Executive Director, US Gran Prix of cyclo-cross. "We can't wait to bring some of the cyclo-cross athletes in the world to Louisville this weekend."

With rain interspersed throughout the week, spectators and athletes alike should anticipate a soft and muddy course which will definitely favor the more technical riders and should make for an exiting & spectator-friendly weekend of 'cross action.

The Elite men's races will feature two-time and defending USGP champion Ryan Trebon returning from a recent European swing to defend his title. Also lining up will be former USGP champ Barry Wicks - currently the top ranked US rider in the latest UCI ranking (ninth), Jeremy Powers, Jesse Anthony, Troy Wells and Tim Johnson. Joachim Parbo, the reigning Danish National Champion, will also race this weekend in Louisville.

In the Elite Women's field, the USGP will feature number one UCI ranked rider in the world and reigning world championship silver medalist Katie Compton who has been riding well in the early part of the season. Defending USGP champion Lynne Bessette will be back to defend her title in a strong women's field which also includes perennial contenders Kerry Barnholt, newly crowned Canadian Champ Wendy Simms, Georgia Gould and Katerina Nash.