Rain-Shortened Opening Night Delivers Thrilling Races at Valley Preferred Cycling Center – American Classic
Trexlertown, PA — May 30, 2025 — The 2025 season at the Valley Preferred Cycling Center kicked off with intensity, speed, and standout performances during a rain-shortened Opening Night. Although the weather ultimately forced the event to end early, fans were treated to several exciting races, including victories from both returning champions and new faces.
Men’s Scratch Race Final – 10km
Reigning Men’s Rider of the Year Lance Abshire (Chaney Windows and Doors) opened the season in dominant form, sprinting to victory at an average speed of 49.2 km/h. He was followed by Jackson Sanders (Edge Cycling) and Brad Green (Star Track) in second and third, respectively. “Starting the season strong is always the goal,” said Abshire. “T-Town is a special place to race, and I’m grateful to open the year with a win.”
Women’s American Tempo Race – 5km
New Zealander Olivia Ray (Star Track) secured a dramatic win over last year’s Women’s Rider of the Year Kimberly Zubris, with both finishing on 18 points. Ray’s higher final sprint placement gave her the edge. Jillian Halm (Kelly Benefit Strategies Cycling) claimed third with a strong showing.
Men’s and Women’s Chariot Races
Finn Koller (Edge Cycling) powered to victory in the Men’s Chariot Race, while Mandy Marquardt (Edge Cycling) took gold in the Women’s final, outpacing a strong field that included Olivia Ray and Divya Verma.
Flying Kilometer
Dakota Stein (Edge Cycling) blasted to the top spot in the Men’s Flying Kilometer. On the women’s side, Marquardt once again delivered, taking first with an impressive 50.3 km/h average speed.
Points Races Add to the Excitement
In the Women’s Points Race, Olivia Ray claimed her second win of the night with 31 points, followed by Zubris and Jessica Chong. On the men’s side, Patton Sims (Star Track UCI) dominated with 41 points, with Kristopher Judd (Inerro NYC Elite Racing) and Mark Mazel (Inerro NYC Racing) rounding out the podium.
Weather Forces Early End
With safety as the top priority, race officials made the call to cancel remaining events as storms rolled in. “We always put the safety of our community first,” said Jorge Romero, Managing Director of the Valley Preferred Cycling Center. “That said, we’re incredibly proud of the performances tonight and grateful for the strong turnout. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back next week.”
Looking Ahead to the T-Town Showdown and UCI Series
Next Friday’s T-Town Showdown will feature elite-level racing in events like the Madison, Chariot Race, and Points Race. It also marks a key prep event ahead of the international UCI event series coming to T-Town on June 13, 20, and 27. These races promise to bring global talent and high-stakes action to the Lehigh Valley.
Full Results & More
For complete results and live timing:
thevelodrome.com/may30
Media Note:
Photos available upon request.
About Valley Preferred Cycling Center
The Valley Preferred Cycling Center (T-Town) has been America’s premier velodrome for over 50 years. As a training ground for Olympians and host to world-class events, VPCC is dedicated to growing the sport of cycling and inspiring the next generation of athletes through community engagement and elite competition.
Information provided to TVL by:
Jake Burns
