The Rising Tide of Track Cycling: How Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY28 is Shaping the Future of Women’s Racing
The landscape of professional women’s cycling is undergoing a subtle but significant shift. While road racing has traditionally dominated the sport, a renewed focus on track cycling, fueled by the approaching 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, is reshaping team strategies and athlete development. Leading this charge is Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY28, the only US women’s UCI Continental-level team in North America for 2026, who have announced a roster built to capitalize on this momentum.
A Roster Reflecting a Strategic Pivot
TWENTY28’s 2026 roster, featuring six riders with national championship victories, isn’t just about maintaining success; it’s about strategically positioning the team for Olympic qualification. The continued sponsorship from Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, now entering its fifth year, provides a stable foundation for this ambitious plan. General Manager Nicola Cranmer’s vision, established in 2005, remains focused on creating a clear pathway for athletes to reach the highest levels of the sport.
The team’s anchor, Marlies Mejías, a Cuban-American powerhouse with 24 victories in 2025, exemplifies this shift. Known for her prowess in one-day road races, Mejías is now prioritizing a strong track campaign. “My season will look very different from the past,” she stated, signaling a clear commitment to the velodrome. This isn’t a solo effort; she’s eager to mentor new sprinter Kenna Pfeiffer, a multi-national speed skating champion, and refine her race craft.
The Power of Multi-Discipline Athletes
The TWENTY28 roster isn’t solely focused on track specialists. The inclusion of riders like Olivia Cummins, Emily Ehrlich, and Anna Hicks – all with multiple national titles across both track and road disciplines – highlights a growing trend: the value of versatility. Cummins’s double gold at US Collegiate Track Nationals and Ehrlich’s Pan-American track titles demonstrate the potential for athletes to excel in both arenas. This multi-disciplinary approach is becoming increasingly crucial as Olympic qualification demands proficiency across various track events.
Developing the Next Generation
Beyond established champions, TWENTY28 is investing heavily in young talent. With three U23 riders – Ella Sabo, Emily Gilbert, and Cummins – the team is building a pipeline for future success. Sabo, the reigning U23 road race national champion, represents the next wave of American cycling talent. This commitment to development aligns with Cranmer’s long-term vision and ensures the team’s continued competitiveness.
Beyond the Track: A Balanced Approach
While the emphasis on track cycling is undeniable, TWENTY28 isn’t abandoning road racing entirely. Cranmer emphasizes a “targeted road schedule” that complements their track goals, focusing on stage races and select one-day events. This balanced approach allows riders to maintain their fitness and race sharpness while prioritizing Olympic qualification. The team plans to compete in key UCI events like the Philadelphia Cycling Classic and Tour de Gatineau, alongside domestic races like Valley of the Sun and Tucson Bicycle Classic.
The Broader Implications for Women’s Cycling
TWENTY28’s strategic shift reflects a broader trend within women’s cycling. The increasing prominence of track cycling, driven by the 2028 Olympics, is forcing teams to re-evaluate their priorities and invest in athletes with the skills to compete on the velodrome. This could lead to increased funding for track programs, greater exposure for track cyclists, and a more diverse range of racing opportunities for women. A recent report by UCI highlights the growing investment in track cycling infrastructure globally, further supporting this trend.
The team’s commitment to athlete development, education, and long-term pathways is also noteworthy. This holistic approach, combined with a strong focus on performance, positions TWENTY28 as a leader in the women’s cycling world. The success of this model could inspire other teams to prioritize athlete well-being and long-term growth, ultimately benefiting the sport as a whole.
What are your predictions for the future of women’s track cycling? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
