For Immediate Release and Consideration:

The Elkhorn Classic returns for year 9 and is scheduled for the 3rd weekend in June, 18 - 20th, 2010 and we are again looking at a solid field of racing as many folks from all over the western US are making plans to attend in preparations for Nationals. Are you ready to ride the 'Horn?

* Elkhorn has been selected as host of the FIAC Stage Race championship. Categories will follow the usual Championship Categories. All OBRA season members are eligible.

* Elkhorn will again host the OBRA Stage Race championship. Details to follow so that results can be provided at the Finish Festival along with GC and FIAC awards and medals. ONLY OBRA season members are eligible.

*Registration is currently on pace as the past 3 record years, but last year many tried to sign up in the last week and a half and not everyone made it. Due to permit issues we may have to impose an overall field limit so sign up soon, sign up early.

* New this year - yet another scoring opportunity for women!!! Elkhorn remains committed to helping women's racing so bring your friends, family, and racers as we have added a Women's Masters 40+ category. You asked and we responded so show your support and commitment to women's racing and come on out. Spread the word and show the importance and impact women's racing can have in our sport.

* Women's payouts are once again being matched by Baker City's patron saint of women's racing Beverly Calder and her shop Bella. In addition while all women's road stages are run in one peloton, the Cat 4 women will have their own criterium race on Saturday afternoon.

* Host housing again has major interest from teams traveling a long way. Hotel, RV park, and School Ground options are always available, but host housing for all women's teams and rentals for co-ed or men's only teams is limited so contact us early to coordinate. Nearly all of the teams from outside the state have already inquired.

* Under the: Follow up from last year category - We are reviewing an alternate Sunday finishing course in the unlikely event of inclement weather but remind riders competing in any event to plan for any condition. A gentle reminder, if the weather is not the best, please help promoters and the greatest officials in all of cycling by not pinning your race number to your jersey, then putting on a vest, jacket, and rain slick over the top and covering it up. It is impossible to read your number unless your number is clearly pinned to your outermost garment.

* Elkhorn has achieved mention in VeloNews as one of the top rated Stage Races in the US and remains committed to making Oregon Stage Racing the highlights of any racers season. Every comment, suggestion, and thought is considered. So let us know what you love and might not love and we'll see what we can do.

* Ride safe, have fun.  See you out there!!!!!

Ernie Conway | Race Director | Elkhorn Classic Stage Race | Baker City, OR | June 18 - 20, 2010 | www.ElkhornClassic.com