NORRISTOWN, PA (BRAIN)—Pro Cycling Tour (PCT) has named Robin Zellner and Andrea Bialick, two veteran cycling experts, as the technical directors for its 2008 Pennsylvania races—the Commerce Bank Triple Crown of Cycling and the all-new U-25 American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania, presented by Highmark Healthy High 5.
"We are thrilled that Robin and Andrea are heading up the PCT technical team,” said Jerry Casale, chief operating officer of PCT. “Robin has great experience as a former pro and team manager, and his relationships in the sport will be very important to our races. Andrea's organizational skills, attention to detail and the respect she has from teams and officials complete the team we need to handle our top UCI events."
Zellner and Bialick will be responsible for the many technical aspects of both the Commerce Bank Triple Crown of Cycling series, which will take place during the first week of June, as well as the recently announced American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania, a six-day stage race that will take place June 24 – 29 for U-25 riders from around the world. In addition to serving as liaisons with race officials, they will oversee all team invitations and logistics, technical regulations, sanction applications and more.
"The formation of a new technical team is another step in PCT's commitment to improve the professionalism of our events. Robin and Andrea represent the higher standards we strive for as we continue to build a bright future of better races and better cycling in the U.S.," said David Chauner, chief executive officer of PCT.
Zellner, former owner and general manager of the Kodak Gallery/Sierra Nevada Pro Cycling Team, brings over 30 years of cycling expertise to his new role as PCT’s technical director. From promoter to manager to professional cyclist, Zellner has experienced cycling from a multitude of perspectives and, as such, is poised to meet the needs of PCT and the teams participating in the ’08 events.
Bialick returns to PCT after providing technical assistance for the 2007 Commerce Bank Triple Crown of Cycling series. She brings over 18 years of experience in race administration and timing for ski races, as well as five years of experience handling logistics and data management for teams, officials and staff for the Univest Grand Prix and U.S. Open Cycling Championships.
Zellner, who decided to turn pro in the mid-eighties because of the Philadelphia International Championship, and then went on to race in the Philadelphia event from 1986-1989, said, “This race was, and still is, the main focus of professional cycling in this country. I’m looking forward to using my experience and knowledge to assist PCT. It’s great to be part of a terrific organization and add to their reputation as great event organizers.”
“I am really impressed with the history and experience that PCT has in professional cycling and their dedication to the future of the sport,” said Bialick. “Providing technical direction for PCT allows me to contribute my talents to an industry for which I have a passion, and it gives me the incredible opportunity to further develop my role within the sport.”
