LOUISVILLE, KY (BRAIN)—SRAM is returning for its fourth consecutive year of sponsorship of the U.S. Gran Prix of Cyclocross.
The USGP is the States premiere CX series that features eight races at four UCI ranked venues that span the entire country. The USGP begins the weekend of Sept., 27 in Madison, Wisconsin, with the Planet Bike Cup, moves through New Jersey and Kentucky, and concludes with the Stanley Portland Cup, in Portland, Oregon, on Dec., 6.
Sponsorship of the USGP dates back to 2006, when SRAM originally introduced its road gruppos, which now include SRAM Red, Force and Rival. SRAM componentry is becoming the componentry choice for cyclocross riders, proven by the spec counts at the last several years' events, and Rival has been deemed the best value in cyclocross componentry by VeloNews magazine.
SRAM has rooted a portion of its road product development in cyclocross, where the challenging conditions can push the limits of componentry. Tim Johnson and Jeremy Powers (both Cyclocrossworld.com) have worked closely with SRAM engineers to further the advantages of SRAM's road groups on the dirt.
SRAM will once again sponsor the "SRAM Most Aggressive Rider Award," which will be awarded to the Men's and Women's pro athletes in each race who provide a great show, deliver an inspiring performance, move up from their original starting position, and obviously ride aggressively. Past winners include Adam Craig, Tim Johnson, Georgia Gould and Ryan Trebon.
Additionally, the SRAM NRS crew, who travel 50,000 miles every year in the beautiful SRAM logoed Volvo XC-70's, will provide support to any rider in need of technical assistance prior to or during each of the USGP events.
Series director Joan Hanscom said, "We are thrilled to have SRAM back with the USGP for another exciting year of cyclocross action. Over the years they have been an invaluable supporter and enhance the series in so many ways. From having a terrific on-site presence for fans and spectators, offering stellar support and expertise to all athletes regardless of category to making race day even more exciting through the SRAM Most Aggressive Rider Competition, they bring a unique SRAM flavor to the whole USGP experience."
