October 20, 2004 – With 2004 in the books, USA Cycling is excited to
announce the 2005 USCF National Racing Calendar (NRC). Going into its ninth
season, the NRC has been condensed into 38 races as opposed to the 56 events
in the 2004 edition. The smaller calendar supports USA Cycling’s mission to
represent a collection of the most prestigious races across the nation.

“The primary purpose of the National Racing Calendar is to provide the top
American teams and riders a calendar of high-quality races where they can
showcase their talents and distinguish themselves against each other,”
explains National Events Director Matt Murphy. “The points they earn are
tallied and the top individual man and woman, along with the top men’s and
women’s teams are crowned the champions at the conclusion of the season.”

“In response to feedback from professional teams, sponsors, and riders, USAC
raised the standards for the 2005 Calendar such that only the top races in
the country remain. We feel this Calendar will provide races with a quality
depth of field week in and week out, producing worthy NRC Champions after
the long season of racing nationwide,” Murphy went on to say.

Racing will commence on March 5 in Merced, Calif. with the McLane Pacific
Downtown Grand Prix. Nineteen states will see NRC action this year before
the season concludes in Greenville, S.C. with the Tour de Cliffs. The 2005
NRC features 115 days of racing for men and 93 days for women.