USA Cycling has announced its 10 nominees for the nation's squad that will go to next month's Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Included in the lineup is defending silver medalist Mary McConneloug, who will front the lineup covering all Olympic disciplines with both experienced and new riders.
McConneloug will be the only female MTB racer on the squad, which will feature male counterparts Todd Wells and Adam Craig. The duo, both making their Pan American Games debut, are America's highest placed riders in the world standings, in 14th and 20th respectively.
As mountain biking is the only discipline at attracts ranking points at the Pan Am Games, the United States will only send a small road and track contingent. TEAm Lipton's Kim Geist will be the sole road rider on the squad, with the 19 year-old due to contest the time trial event.
Ben Barczewski and Andy Lakatosh make up the track contingent, contesting the match sprint and keirin events. Meanwhile, four athletes will represent the nation in the Olympic's newest sport - BMX - Brandon Meadows, Jason Richardson, Krystal Hime and Rachel Smith.
The nominees are subject to approval by the United States Olympic Committee Board of Directors.
American Pan American Games roster: Road - Kim Geist, Track - Ben Barczewski, Andy Lakatosh, Mountain Bike - Todd Wells, Adam Craig, Mary McConneloug, BMX - Brandon Meadows, Jason Richardson, Krystal Hime, Rachel Smith.
