Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY28 announces Aspiring 2026 Roster, Focused on Olympic Track Qualification
Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY28 is gearing up for a pivotal 2026 season, unveiling a dynamic roster poised to excel on both the road and the track. The team’s strategy reflects a growing emphasis on Olympic track cycling qualification, beginning with the 2026 UCI Track World Championships. However, a robust road schedule remains central to athlete development and competitive success.
This announcement signals a commitment to building a high-performance program centered around athlete growth, education, and a clear pathway to the world stage. Team Director, Jeremy Cranmer, emphasizes that while track is a key focus, the team won’t abandon its strong road racing presence.
A Roster Brimming with National Champions & Rising Stars
The 2026 roster boasts a compelling mix of established national champions and promising young talent. Here’s a closer look at some of the key riders:
* Olivia Cummins (USA): A versatile 22-year-old, Cummins recently placed fifth in the elite women’s road race at USPro Nationals and secured multiple podium finishes at the Amazon Armed Forces Cycling Classic. She’s a decorated athlete with national titles across track, junior road, and collegiate events.
* Emily Ehrlich (USA): Ehrlich is a rising star, having claimed her first elite national time trial title in Charleston, West Virginia. She’s also a two-time Pan-American track champion in both Individual and Team pursuit.
* Anna Hicks (USA): Hicks continues to build her remarkable track record, now holding four US national track titles, including gold in individual and Team Pursuit. She also demonstrated strong road form, winning the GC at the Tucson Bicycle Classic.
Beyond these headliners, the team features a wealth of talent ready to contribute. You’ll see riders like Bethany Ingram, who contributed to Hicks’ Team Pursuit victory, and emerging talents like Marlies Mejias and Ella Sabo.
strategic Race Schedule: Balancing Road & Track
TWENTY28’s 2026 schedule is thoughtfully designed to support both track and road objectives. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Early Season (Track Focus):
* January: Bromont C2 International Track Competition (Canada) followed by a training camp in Arizona.
* Late January: Mexican National Track Championships.
* February 16-22: Pan American Track Championships (Santiago, Chile) – a crucial event for Olympic qualification.
Road Season Highlights:
* Early Season: Valley of the Sun and Tucson Bicycle Classic with the road-focused younger squad.
* Spring/Summer: Sea Otter Classic, Redlands Bicycle Classic, Philadelphia Cycling Classic, Maryland Cycling Classic, Tour de Gatineau, and select criteriums like the Armed Forces Cycling Classic.
This targeted approach allows athletes to hone their skills in both disciplines, maximizing their potential for success. Cranmer notes the team will prioritize stage races and one-day events that complement their track goals.
Looking Ahead: Partnerships & Continued Growth
TWENTY28 is actively pursuing new equipment partnerships and performance collaborations to further enhance its capabilities.The team remains dedicated to its core values: a high-performance, women-led program focused on athlete development, education, and long-term success.
“What isn’t changing is our core,” Cranmer states. “we’re committed to providing a supportive surroundings where athletes can thrive and reach their full potential.”
Complete 2026 Roster:
* Sofía Arreola (MEX)
* Olivia Cummins (USA)
* Emily Ehrlich (USA)
* Emmi Gilbert (USA)
* Anna Hicks (USA)
* Bethany Ingram (USA)
* Rylee McMullen (AUS)
* Marlies Mejias (CUB)
* Kenna Pfeiffer (USA)
* Marjorie Rinaldo (USA)
* ella Sabo (USA)
This season promises to be an exciting one for Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY28. With a talented roster, a strategic race schedule, and a unwavering commitment to athlete development, the team is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact on the cycling world in 2026 and beyond.
Worth a look