Back to Maryland: An American Classic

# Maryland Cycling Classic: A Classic Race Returns with New Challenges

Three years after clinching victory in the inaugural Maryland Cycling Classic, Israel – Premier Tech is set to make their return to what many consider the premier cycling event in the United States. This year’s race, extending 172.8 kilometers from downtown Baltimore, takes on an elevated significance as organizers have introduced two new climbs into the finishing circuits around the Maryland state capital.

“We have to prepare for two possible scenarios: the preferred one is arriving at the finish with our sprinters. The second is to be ready for a potential breakaway or a split in the climbs,” says Sports Director René Andrle, capturing the dual strategies the team must adopt.

Bringing a mix of experience and talent, the team features German sprinter Pascal Ackermann alongside the formidable Israeli rider Oded Kogut. “If Oded can handle the climbs, I believe he’ll have a great opportunity,” Andrle adds, hinting at Kogut’s potential to shine on this challenging route.

Kogut, who recently finished third in the Israeli Road Championships, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The changes to the race make it more challenging and exciting. I’m coming with a lot of motivation to do my job as best as I can, whether it’s leading or supporting the team.”

The roster also includes home rider Riley Sheehan and the seasoned Simon Clarke, who will be pivotal in creating strategies should the sprinters not have a clear shot at victory.

“I’m very excited to race back in the U.S. after a long time. It’s not often I get back to my country, especially to race my bike,” says Sheehan. He shares his readiness, adding, “The legs are feeling pretty good, and I’ve had a pretty good second half of the year. I’m super motivated, and I can’t wait for this home race.”

Back in 2022, at its inaugural event, IPT triumphed with Sep Vanmarcke leading the charge, aided by a passionate local crowd, many of whom hailed from the Jewish community in Baltimore. Kogut looks forward to experiencing that sense of community again, remarking, “I’m really looking forward to this race. It’s my first time in the U.S., and it’s always exciting to race somewhere new. Beyond that, I’m eager to meet our community, see the fans waving Israeli flags, and feel a warm welcome.”

As anticipation builds for the Maryland Cycling Classic on Saturday, September 6, fans can look forward to an exciting show of endurance and strategy from Israel – Premier Tech.

### Team Roster for the Maryland Cycling Classic:
– **Riders:** Pascal Ackermann (GER), Guillaume Boivin (CAN), Simon Clarke (AUS), Oded Kogut (ISR), Matîs Louvel (FRA), Michael Schwarzmann (GER), Riley Sheehan (USA)
– **Sports Director:** René Andrle (CZE)