USA Cycling to Unveil 2024 Olympic Team in Bentonville
As anticipation builds for the 2024 Olympic Games, USA Cycling is set to announce its Olympic mountain bike team in Bentonville, Arkansas. This event marks a significant milestone in the lead-up to the prestigious international competition.
The Road to the Olympics Starts in Bentonville
Bentonville, known as the Mountain Biking Capital of the World, is no stranger to fostering elite cycling talent. The city has become a hub for professional and emerging riders alike, boasting an extensive network of trails and gravel roads ideal for training and development. USA Cycling’s decision to host the announcement in Bentonville underscores the region’s importance in supporting American mountain bike athletes.
A World-Class Training Ground
The U.S. National Mountain Bike Team will leverage Bentonville’s trail network and surrounding infrastructure for endurance fitness camps and skills development camps. This strategic move aims to propel American riders toward Olympic success, as stated by USA Cycling CEO Brendan Quirk: “Our long-term goal is for Team USA to win the gold at the 2028 Olympic Games.”
Philanthropic Backing for USA Cycling’s Ambition
The endeavour is made possible through significant philanthropic investments from the Walton Family Foundation, the Rob and Melani Walton Foundation, and the Penner Family Foundation. This backing paves the way for enhanced training and support facilities for USA Cycling’s Under-23 and Junior riders.
Bentonville’s Immense Cycling Infrastructure
Bentonville will also become the national base for USA Cycling’s collegiate operations and other grassroots initiatives. The city is home to the OZ Trails™, a vast network of more than 300 miles of trails catering to riders of all ages and skill levels. This vibrant cycling ecosystem further solidifies Bentonville’s reputation as a global hub for professional and emerging talent.