The Mt. Hood Cycling Classic is stepping up its efforts this year with a brand new UCI designation for the women, one of the top-ranked NRC events for the men, and two brand new stages in downtown Portland, Oregon.

For 2008, this prestigious “climbers” race will switch to a slightly more balanced format with the inclusion of two new venues for stages one and two. According to Mt. Hood Cycling Classic PR Director, Tre Hendricks, “We have tried to give the event more balance to attract a more diversified field of riders so this year’s event will feature a flat opening prologue and a challenging criterium for the opening stage.

“In addition we will be introducing a sprinter’s competition as well as a best young rider’s competition to go along with our existing King of the Mountains competition. Now there is something the sprinters can contest throughout the race.”

But if you think rest of the event has gone flat you will be mistaken. The remaining 4 stages will add up to a combined elevation of 30,000 feet for the pro men and 25,000 feet for the pro women making it one of the toughest races in the nation.

With stages one and two in and around downtown Portland, expect thousands of screaming fans to be lining the courses. Well-known as a cycling hot bed, Portland is perfectly suited to host the race’s first two days.

“Heading to Portland and showcasing the tremendous cycling vibe the city has just seemed like a natural,” says Hendricks. “The City of Portland and the Office of Commissioner Sam Adams have been incredibly supportive about hosting the event”.

Also new this year is a UCI designation for the women’s race. “With so many UCI races on the men’s calendar for 2008, we felt it very important at this time to step up and offer a UCI event for the women” says Hendricks.

In fact for 2008 the Mt. Hood Cycling Classic will be the only UCI sanctioned women’s stage race in the nation. “We are seeing a lot of positive response to the UCI Women’s North American calendar this year,” says Hendricks.

“For the first time ever women’s teams can race at four UCI events in a row with Tour of Leelanau, Montreal World Cup and the Liberty Classic all falling right after Mt. Hood”. This makes it much more attractive for European teams who want to come compete in the U.S.

Although race organizers now have the support they need to make the race a go this year, the growth has not been without some strain. For the first time in its history the Mt. Hood Cycling Classic is without a title sponsor for the race. Having finished up a 5-year contract with Full Sail Brewing the event is now looking for a new partner to take over the title position.

“Full Sail has been a tremendous partner and continues to support the race, but we are looking for new partners who are interested in being a part of a major cycling event,” says Hendricks. “We have always operated very efficiently and fortunately we have a number of great sponsors on board now who can help support the event this year.”

Race organizers report that there are still sponsorship opportunities available for 2008, including the event’s Title sponsorship.

For more information and updates be sure and check out the Mt. Hood Cycling Classic web site at www.mthoodcyclingclassic.com