Experience the Thrill of Racing: Watch the Maryland Cycling Classic 2025 Live

Meet The Cycling Journalists Covering The World’s Biggest Races

The world of professional cycling is fueled not just by athletic prowess,but by the dedicated journalists who bring the stories to a global audience. These individuals spend countless hours on the road, tracking riders, analyzing races, and offering insightful commentary. This report profiles a selection of key figures in cycling journalism, highlighting their experience and expertise.

Seasoned Reporters with Decades of Experience

Andrew Hood, known within the cycling community as “EuroHoody,” has been a fixture in the sport sence 2002. He currently serves as the European editor for Velo, and has reported extensively on major races like the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and Vuelta a España. His work extends beyond Velo, appearing in prominent publications such as The New York Times and Sports Illustrated, and he has made appearances on CNN, NBC, and NPR.

Jim Cotton, a UK-based editor and reporter, has focused on road racing, training, and nutrition. He has worked at all three grand Tours, Paris-Roubaix, and the Road World Championships. Cotton is the creator of the ‘Behind the Ride’ series,a column exploring the training methods and lifestyles of professional cyclists.

From Academia to the Peloton

Betsy Welch brings a unique background to her role as a senior editor at Velonews. Prior to her journalism career, she worked as a Spanish teacher and a Registered Nurse. Welch has been a freelance writer for over a decade, covering cycling, outdoor adventures, and health-related topics. She is currently engaged in a long-term bikepacking project along the Baja Divide.

International Perspectives on Cycling

Sadhbh O’Shea, based on the Isle of Man, has been reporting on cycling for nearly a decade, covering the three Grand Tours and various Monument races. Her international experience provides a broad outlook on the sport’s global landscape.

Andy McGrath, a former editor of Rouleur magazine, is a freelance sports journalist who has covered the Tour de France and other major cycling events. Shane Stokes, an Irish Times cycling writer with a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology, offers a scientific lens to his reporting.

Tech and Visual Storytelling

Alving Holbrook serves as the Road and gravel tech editor for VELO, bringing expert knowledge to the latest cycling equipment. Will Tracy is a photojournalist and Associate Editor,bringing visual storytelling to the sport.

Here’s a snapshot of the journalists and their primary areas of focus:

Name	Primary Focus	Notable Achievements/Experience
Andrew Hood	European Cycling Editor	Extensive Grand Tour coverage, appearances on major news networks.
Betsy Welch	Senior Editor	Background in healthcare and education; Long-distance bikepacking.
Sadhbh O’Shea	International Cycling reporter	Coverage of Grand Tours and Monument races.
Jim Cotton	Road Racing & Training	‘Behind the Ride’ series, extensive race coverage.

Did You Know? The number of accredited journalists covering the Tour de France has steadily increased over the past decade, reflecting the growing global interest in the sport.

Pro Tip: following these journalists on social media is a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest cycling news and insights.

Who do you think provides the most insightful coverage of professional cycling? What aspect of cycling journalism do you find most valuable?

The Evolving landscape of Cycling Journalism

Cycling journalism is adapting to the digital age, with an increasing emphasis on live reporting, social media engagement, and data analysis. The rise of self-reliant cycling podcasts and online platforms provides a vibrant space for discussion and commentary. The current trend for content creation launched by teams and riders themselves provides a new dimension of access to the sport. As professional cycling continues to evolve, the role of journalists in providing accurate, insightful, and engaging content will remain crucial.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cycling Journalism

• What skills are essential for a cycling journalist? A strong writing ability, in-depth knowledge of the sport, and the ability to travel extensively are key.
• How has social media impacted cycling journalism? Social media provides journalists with an immediate platform to share updates and engage with fans.
• What are the biggest challenges facing cycling journalists today? Maintaining objectivity, dealing with the fast-paced nature of the sport, and navigating the complexities of team and sponsor relationships.
• Where can I find reliable sources of cycling news? Reputable websites like VeloNews, Cyclingnews, and the official websites of major races are excellent sources.
• Is a background in cycling necessary to become a journalist in the sport? While not always required, a strong understanding of cycling is highly beneficial.

Share your thoughts on these leading cycling journalists in the comments below and let us know who you follow and why!

What type of riders are expected to excel based on teh course highlights?

What is the maryland Cycling Classic?

The Maryland Cycling Classic presented by BGE is a professional road cycling race held annually in Maryland. Established in 2022, it quickly became a prominent event on the UCI ProSeries calendar, attracting top cycling teams and athletes from around the globe. This one-day race offers a challenging course and exciting finishes, making it a must-watch for cycling enthusiasts. The 2025 edition promises even more action and intensity. Expect a thrilling spectacle of speed, strategy, and endurance.

Key Details for the 2025 Race

Here’s what you need to know about the Maryland Cycling Classic 2025:

Date: September 7, 2025

Location: Baltimore and surrounding areas, Maryland

Race Distance: Approximately 120 miles (193 kilometers)

UCI Category: UCI ProSeries 1.Pro

Expected Teams: WorldTour teams, ProTeams, and Continental teams. (Confirmed team lists will be released closer to the event.)

Course Highlights: The course features challenging climbs,fast descents,and technical sections,providing a diverse test for riders. The finish in Baltimore is known for its exciting sprint potential.

How to Watch the Maryland Cycling Classic 2025 Live

Several options are available to experience the race live:

Television: Check your local listings for potential broadcast partners. In 2023 and 2024, the race was broadcast on CBS Sports Network. Expect similar coverage in 2025.

Streaming Services: Streaming options are likely to be available through platforms like Paramount+, the CBS Sports app, or the Maryland Cycling Classic’s official website.

official Website: The official Maryland Cycling Classic website (https://marylandcyclingclassic.com/) will likely offer live timing, race updates, and possibly a live stream.

Cycling Apps & Platforms: Platforms like FloBikes often carry live coverage of professional cycling events.

In-Person Viewing: Spectators are encouraged to line the course and cheer on the riders! Designated fan zones and viewing areas will be announced closer to the event date.

Understanding the Course: A Rider’s Challenge

The Maryland Cycling Classic course is designed to test riders in multiple disciplines.

Hills & Climbs: Expect several challenging climbs that will separate the contenders. These climbs require significant power and endurance.

Technical Sections: Tight corners and winding roads demand skillful bike handling and tactical awareness.

Sprint Finish: The flat finish in Baltimore favors sprinters, creating a dramatic showdown for the win.

course Map: Detailed course maps are available on the official Maryland Cycling Classic website,allowing you to plan your viewing experience.

Benefits of Watching Professional Cycling

Beyond the excitement of the race itself, watching professional cycling offers several benefits:

Inspiration: Witnessing the dedication, athleticism, and teamwork of professional cyclists can be incredibly inspiring.

Fitness Motivation: The race can motivate you to pursue your own fitness goals, whether it’s cycling, running, or other activities.

Strategic Thinking: Cycling is a highly tactical sport. Observing the race can enhance your understanding of strategy and decision-making.

Community: Cycling events foster a sense of community among fans and participants.

Pro Cycling Terminology: A Fast Guide

New to cycling? Here’s a glossary of common terms:

Peloton: The main group of riders in a race.

Breakaway: When a small group of riders separates from the peloton.

Sprinter: A rider specializing in fast finishes.

Climber: A rider excelling on uphill sections.

Domestique: A rider who supports their team leader.

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