Team USA

Road

About Road Cycling

The passion of the open road. The speed and unbridled power. Rolling hills, endless climbs, and winding descents. Maybe you’ve done some group rides or a century, and now you want to test yourself against others of your ability and age. Or you’ve seen the Tour de France and felt inspired to get moving. An Olympic sport since 1896, road cycling has the deepest roots of all disciplines. While road racing typically happens during spring and summer months, the occasional race pops up in fall and winter in warmer states. Regardless of your age or ability, there is a place for you to challenge yourself and compete!

Road Race

This is likely the longest of the single day race types, and begins with a staggered mass start – where everyone in a specific category starts together. These races are created based on distance instead of time, and typically range from 30-60 miles in length for amateur racers. Drafting is allowed and team tactics will definitely come into play!

Criterium

Criteriums (crits) are another mass start event, but are set up on a closed (not open to car traffic) course that is typically a mile or less and may include sharp corners. Racers do repeated laps of the course for a pre-determined amount of time - usually 30 to 90 minutes. The officials will time the first few laps to figure out how fast the field is racing, then hold up lap cards at the start/finish line indicating how many laps remain in the race. These races allow drafting and tend to be quite fast. Racing with a team allows for more strategy and blocking tactics over the course of the race.

Time Trial

Also known as a TT, this race can be done either individually or as a team (depending on the event) in a race against the clock. If you’re not comfortable riding with a large group of other cyclists, or you’re looking for a consistent power outlet this is a great option for you. This race does not allow for drafting and everyone starts on their own in 30-seconds to one-minute intervals. Some events come in standard lengths, whereas ultra-endurance events allow riders to ride as far as possible within the time limit.

Stage Races

A stage race is a combination of the previous events, held over several consecutive days, with one race type on each day. It may include road races, criteriums, a time trial, or a circuit race (which is basically somewhere between a road race and a criterium). Each day, the time it takes you to complete that stage is recorded, and the rider with the lowest total time over the duration of the race wins. Some race stages receive time credits for wins. This favors the rider with the best all-around ability, but you can always shine on the stages that suit your skills and talent!

Join The Team

The Road pathway identifies the next generation of road athletes with world-class potential and to develop the necessary skills to compete at the elite level. It develops their physiological abilities and skills, and provides them with world-class coaching, experience, resources, and the support required to excel at the highest levels of international competition.

Get Involved

Join A Club

Compete Locally

Join A Camp

Prepare & Train

Compete Nationally

Compete Internationally

Athlete Development Pathway

USA Cycling’s Athlete Development Pathway defines structured development tiers with multiple levels of programming for athletes in their journey to the USA Cycling National Team. The Athlete Development Pathway leads program design both at the club and national levels, all while educating parents and athletes about the multiple opportunities available to them on their journey from local results to international achievement.

Regional Camps - LEARN MORE

2024 Schedule

DATEEVENTLOCATIONCAMP DIRECTORREGISTRATION
May 26-29Bentonville Gravel CampBentonville, ARSource EnduranceREGISTER
June 20-23San Diego Road CampSan Diego, CASource EnduranceREGISTER
July 10-14CCAP Summer Road CampStorrs, CTCCAPREGISTER
July 15-20Mars Hill Road & Gravel CampMars Hill, NCMars HillREGISTER


European Race Camps - LEARN MORE

The Junior European Race Camp (Ages 15-16) will learn hands-on in Europe training under the guidance of World Tour professionals, and experiencing iconic courses. Athletes will be immersed in complete education sessions in strength training, skills, nutrition, tactics, sports psychology and more.

2024 Schedule

DATEEVENTLOCATION
June 27 - July 15European Racing & Training Camp (Men and Women)Sittard, Netherlands
Invite Only
August 8 - 26European Racing & Training Camp (Men Only)Sittard, NetherlandsInvite Only


Trip Details:

  • Athletes must be race age 15-16

  • Minimum of 4 European race days, mostly Kermesse racing in Belgium

  • European training block, designed to increase fitness and experience for an aspiring World Tour athlete

  • How to live in Europe and succeed as an athlete

  • Physiology testing to determine athletic potential

  • European race skills and tactics

Cost* - $4,500

  • 3-week European race and training camp, including team clothing and all on-site logistics.

*Additional Fees

  • Flights to and from Europe

What is the National Team Designation?

USA Cycling is responsible for supporting and guiding athletes capable of winning Olympic medals, while also identifying, recruiting and developing future Games athletes. Our vision is to be amongst the very best in the world at talent identification, athlete development, management and preparation in all cycling disciplines. The National Team Designation is considered a critical means for achieving this vision. The support provided through the program seeks to offset some of the expenses associated with preparing for and participating in international sport. The program aims to support and assist athletes with the greatest potential to win medals at the Olympic Games and World Championships.

Do you have what it takes to be a part of the team? Click here to view the 2025 National Team Criteria.


MEET THE TEAM

Road Olympics 430x430
Olympic Games

July 26 - August 11, 2024

Paris, France

ROAD RACE & TT SELECTION CRITERIA

STAFF SELECTION PROCEDURES

Discretionary Petition

ROAD PAN AM GAMES
Road Continental Championships

May 22-26, 2024

Brazil

SELECTION CRITERIA

DISCRETIONARY PETITION

Road Devo Programs 430x430
National Team Road Programs

USA Cycling is committed to Junior and U23 Development Programs. We are constantly on the look out for talent and are recruiting for these programs. Review the document below for more information on the selection process.

selection guidelines

Selection Process

USA Cycling is responsible for selecting the athletes who represent the United States in Protected Competitions through an extensive selection process.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ATHLETE EVENT SELECTION PROCESS

Selection Committee

The discipline-specific selection committee provides oversight and accountability of the athlete nomination process. They ensure that the athlete selection procedures are followed and that criteria – both automatic and discretionary - are applied appropriately to nominate athletes. Once confirmed, they approve the athlete nominations.

Each discipline-specific selection committee is composed of three volunteers – a 10 Year Athlete, discipline expert unrelated to USA Cycling, and USA Cycling Discipline Director. Each selection committee includes at least one-third 10 Year Athlete Representatives as required by the USOPC Bylaws. Athlete Representatives on the selection committees are approved by USA Cycling’s Athletes’ Advisory Council.

The Road Selection Committee is as follows:

  • Ben King - 10 Year Athlete
  • Christine Thorburn - 2004 & 2008 Olympian; 2006 World Time Trial Medalist
  • USA Cycling Discipline Director

All members of the Selection Committee and USA Cycling Sport Performance staff participating in a selection must comply with USA Cycling’s Statement of Ethics and Conflict of Interest Policy.

About Road Cycling

The passion of the open road. The speed and unbridled power. Rolling hills, endless climbs, and winding descents. Maybe you’ve done some group rides or a century, and now you want to test yourself against others of your ability and age. Or you’ve seen the Tour de France and felt inspired to get moving. An Olympic sport since 1896, road cycling has the deepest roots of all disciplines. While road racing typically happens during spring and summer months, the occasional race pops up in fall and winter in warmer states. Regardless of your age or ability, there is a place for you to challenge yourself and compete!

Road Race

This is likely the longest of the single day race types, and begins with a staggered mass start – where everyone in a specific category starts together. These races are created based on distance instead of time, and typically range from 30-60 miles in length for amateur racers. Drafting is allowed and team tactics will definitely come into play!

Criterium

Criteriums (crits) are another mass start event, but are set up on a closed (not open to car traffic) course that is typically a mile or less and may include sharp corners. Racers do repeated laps of the course for a pre-determined amount of time - usually 30 to 90 minutes. The officials will time the first few laps to figure out how fast the field is racing, then hold up lap cards at the start/finish line indicating how many laps remain in the race. These races allow drafting and tend to be quite fast. Racing with a team allows for more strategy and blocking tactics over the course of the race.

Time Trial

Also known as a TT, this race can be done either individually or as a team (depending on the event) in a race against the clock. If you’re not comfortable riding with a large group of other cyclists, or you’re looking for a consistent power outlet this is a great option for you. This race does not allow for drafting and everyone starts on their own in 30-seconds to one-minute intervals. Some events come in standard lengths, whereas ultra-endurance events allow riders to ride as far as possible within the time limit.

Stage Races

A stage race is a combination of the previous events, held over several consecutive days, with one race type on each day. It may include road races, criteriums, a time trial, or a circuit race (which is basically somewhere between a road race and a criterium). Each day, the time it takes you to complete that stage is recorded, and the rider with the lowest total time over the duration of the race wins. Some race stages receive time credits for wins. This favors the rider with the best all-around ability, but you can always shine on the stages that suit your skills and talent!

Join The Team

The Road pathway identifies the next generation of road athletes with world-class potential and to develop the necessary skills to compete at the elite level. It develops their physiological abilities and skills, and provides them with world-class coaching, experience, resources, and the support required to excel at the highest levels of international competition.

Get Involved

Join A Club

Compete Locally

Join A Camp

Prepare & Train

Compete Nationally

Compete Internationally

Athlete Development Pathway

USA Cycling’s Athlete Development Pathway defines structured development tiers with multiple levels of programming for athletes in their journey to the USA Cycling National Team. The Athlete Development Pathway leads program design both at the club and national levels, all while educating parents and athletes about the multiple opportunities available to them on their journey from local results to international achievement.

Regional Camps - LEARN MORE

2024 Schedule

DATEEVENTLOCATIONCAMP DIRECTORREGISTRATION
May 26-29Bentonville Gravel CampBentonville, ARSource EnduranceREGISTER
June 20-23San Diego Road CampSan Diego, CASource EnduranceREGISTER
July 10-14CCAP Summer Road CampStorrs, CTCCAPREGISTER
July 15-20Mars Hill Road & Gravel CampMars Hill, NCMars HillREGISTER


European Race Camps - LEARN MORE

The Junior European Race Camp (Ages 15-16) will learn hands-on in Europe training under the guidance of World Tour professionals, and experiencing iconic courses. Athletes will be immersed in complete education sessions in strength training, skills, nutrition, tactics, sports psychology and more.

2024 Schedule

DATEEVENTLOCATION
June 27 - July 15European Racing & Training Camp (Men and Women)Sittard, Netherlands
Invite Only
August 8 - 26European Racing & Training Camp (Men Only)Sittard, NetherlandsInvite Only


Trip Details:

  • Athletes must be race age 15-16

  • Minimum of 4 European race days, mostly Kermesse racing in Belgium

  • European training block, designed to increase fitness and experience for an aspiring World Tour athlete

  • How to live in Europe and succeed as an athlete

  • Physiology testing to determine athletic potential

  • European race skills and tactics

Cost* - $4,500

  • 3-week European race and training camp, including team clothing and all on-site logistics.

*Additional Fees

  • Flights to and from Europe

What is the National Team Designation?

USA Cycling is responsible for supporting and guiding athletes capable of winning Olympic medals, while also identifying, recruiting and developing future Games athletes. Our vision is to be amongst the very best in the world at talent identification, athlete development, management and preparation in all cycling disciplines. The National Team Designation is considered a critical means for achieving this vision. The support provided through the program seeks to offset some of the expenses associated with preparing for and participating in international sport. The program aims to support and assist athletes with the greatest potential to win medals at the Olympic Games and World Championships.

Do you have what it takes to be a part of the team? Click here to view the 2025 National Team Criteria.


MEET THE TEAM

Road Olympics 430x430
Olympic Games

July 26 - August 11, 2024

Paris, France

ROAD RACE & TT SELECTION CRITERIA

STAFF SELECTION PROCEDURES

Discretionary Petition

ROAD PAN AM GAMES
Road Continental Championships

May 22-26, 2024

Brazil

SELECTION CRITERIA

DISCRETIONARY PETITION

Road Devo Programs 430x430
National Team Road Programs

USA Cycling is committed to Junior and U23 Development Programs. We are constantly on the look out for talent and are recruiting for these programs. Review the document below for more information on the selection process.

selection guidelines

Selection Process

USA Cycling is responsible for selecting the athletes who represent the United States in Protected Competitions through an extensive selection process.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ATHLETE EVENT SELECTION PROCESS

Selection Committee

The discipline-specific selection committee provides oversight and accountability of the athlete nomination process. They ensure that the athlete selection procedures are followed and that criteria – both automatic and discretionary - are applied appropriately to nominate athletes. Once confirmed, they approve the athlete nominations.

Each discipline-specific selection committee is composed of three volunteers – a 10 Year Athlete, discipline expert unrelated to USA Cycling, and USA Cycling Discipline Director. Each selection committee includes at least one-third 10 Year Athlete Representatives as required by the USOPC Bylaws. Athlete Representatives on the selection committees are approved by USA Cycling’s Athletes’ Advisory Council.

The Road Selection Committee is as follows:

  • Ben King - 10 Year Athlete
  • Christine Thorburn - 2004 & 2008 Olympian; 2006 World Time Trial Medalist
  • USA Cycling Discipline Director

All members of the Selection Committee and USA Cycling Sport Performance staff participating in a selection must comply with USA Cycling’s Statement of Ethics and Conflict of Interest Policy.

ROAD CYCLING

MEET THE STAFF
Tanner Putt h Headshot 23
Tanner
Putt
Road Director
Background

Tanner Putt comes to USA Cycling after eight years as a professional road cyclist, five years on the USA Cycling National Team, and experience directing a domestic elite road team. In 2022, Tanner worked as the USA Cycling U23 National Team Director at Tour de l'Avenir and the Road World Championships. He became the full-time Director of Road in January 2023.

With his 15 years of combined competitive and coaching experience, passion for athlete development, and extensive knowledge of top-level racing, Tanner will support USA Cycling with growing opportunities for the next generation of riders and creating a deeper pool of talent in the U.S. Tanner grew up in Park City, UT, and is now based in Colorado with his wife and two dogs.

CONTACT
Gavin Mannion Headshots
Gavin
Mannion
Junior Men's Road Director
Background

Coming up through U.S. junior cycling programs himself, Gavin Mannion has a unique perspective as he steps in as the USA Cycling Junior Men’s Road Director in 2023.

Gavin is a third-generation cyclist and national champion. Both his father and grandfather hold Irish National Cycling Championship titles. Following his father's cadence, Gavin has been engrossed in the competitive cycling scene he was a child growing up outside of Boston.

While competing as a junior, Gavin got his first taste of international cycling. He rode for professional teams from Trek-Livestrong to UCI pro team Human Powered Health. Gavin was the champion of the 2017 and 2018 USA Cycling Pro Road Tour (PRT) and 2018 Colorado Classic. His accomplishments also included European pro race wins and representing the United States at World Championships for cross and road. Gavin has taken his professional cycling experience and translated it into a coaching and directing career where he has developed young riders and national champions.

CONTACT
Kristen Arnold Headshots
Kristen
Arnold
Women’s Development Road Director
Background

Kristen joins USA Cycling in 2023 as the Women’s Development Road Director eagerly cultivating high-performance development of America’s next best talent. She comes to USA Cycling with a holistic breadth of knowledge and expertise as a retired elite road cyclist, sports dietitian, cycling coach, and grassroots women’s development org founder. Kristen is a cycling coach of 8 years working with recreational to professional athletes in various disciplines, a Registered Dietitian focusing on sports nutrition for women in her private practice, and a retired domestic-elite road cyclist of 8 years racing across the USA and Canada for various domestic elite teams. In 2022 Kristen retired from racing and became the sport director for a national-level women’s team and the Olympic Development Academy program for USA Cycling.

Kristen is a Level1 USA Cycling certified coach, Registered Dietitian, Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics, and has a Bachelor’s in Dietetics and Master’s in Human Nutrition from The Ohio State University. Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio and now living in Fort Collins, Colorado with her spouse, cat, and wonderful community.

CONTACT
Jim Miller Bio 4
Jim
Miller
Chief of Sport Performance
Background

A successful professional cyclist in his own right, Jim coached several cyclists on the side and eventually retired from racing in 1999 to focus solely on his flourishing coaching career. After developing several notable cyclists, he originally came to USA Cycling to run the women’s road program in 2002. After earning Coach of the Year distinctions from the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee in 2003 & 2004, Jim was promoted to director of endurance programs, overseeing the development of American junior, U23, and women endurance athletes in road and track cycling. After making significant strides toward the USA Cycling National Development Program’s goal of developing the next generation of American cyclists, he was named Vice President of Athletics in 2010. In 2017, Jim left USA Cycling to become the Vice President of Business Development for Training Peaks. Unable to resist the Olympic call, he returned to USA Cycling in 2020 as the Chief of Sport Performance. He has earned the International Olympic Committee’s highest honor for coaches, the Order of Ikkos, three times, all for coaching 3-time Olympic Champion Kristen Armstrong to victory.

CONTACT
Mike
Creed
U23 Men's Road Director
Background
23 Road Donate 1440x500

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