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5/19/2025

Day 1 of US ParaNationals - Celebrating Project Echelon Veteran National Champions - Justin Mathers & Shawn Morelli

Fifteen Para-Cycling Titles Awarded on the First Day of 2025 Pro Road Nationals

Para-cyclists competed for the Stars and Stripes in Downtown Charleston.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – May 19, 2025 – The 2025 USA Cycling Pro Road National Championships kicked off on Monday morning with the Para-cycling categories. Twenty-six of the nation’s best para-athletes competed for the first time in Charleston as part of the Pro Road National Championships.

The first race of the day kicked off with the Tandem and Cycling classes. Men’s Tandem and C3-C5 raced a total of nine laps on the eight-kilometer course, which totaled 69-kilometers. Earning the first gold medal of the week, Michael Murphy (Rio Rancho, N.M.; The Veloflö Projekt) and pilot Joseph Matta won the Men’s B class. They completed the race in just under two hours. “This was a great race getting us prepped for tomorrow’s time trial,” said Murphy. “Being able to be out there with the other categories was awesome. It’s an electrifying event; this is super cool having this many people around for a race.”

Men’s B (Tandem) Results:
1. Michael Murphy & Joseph Matta (Rio Rancho, N.M.; The Veloflö Projekt)

In the second wave of the day in the Men’s C5 category, Chris Grant (Lake Placid, N.Y.; High Peaks Cyclery) delivered a strong performance, claiming the top step of the podium with a seven-minute lead over second place Erik Olson (Bridger, Mont.; CAF Cycling/Allard Team Up). In the same wave the Men’s C4 race was tight all the way to the line.

CJ Howard (Sacramento, Calif.; Pacos/Shriners Racing) and Mitch Brekke (Hartland, Minn.; Gray Duck Racing) both racing in the Men’s C4 category, and Justin Mathers (Fayetteville, N.C.; Project Ridgeline p/b Irish Cycles) in the Men’s C3 rode together for most of the nine-lap race. Mathers pulled away from Howard and Brekke late in the last lap to claim the Men’s C3 title. Howard and Brekke kept eyes on each other, staying neck and neck all the way to the line. Finishing in a sprint, Howard secured the Stars and Stripes while Brekke earned silver. Ricardo Alanis Saldivar (Mission, Texas; Bikes & More) rounded out the podium in third for the Men’s C4.

Men’s C5 (Cycling) Results:
1. Chris Grant (Lake Placid, N.Y.; High Peaks Cyclery)
2. Erik Olson (Bridger, Mont.; CAF Cycling/Allard Team Up)

Men’s C4 (Cycling) Results:
1. CJ Howard (Sacramento, Calif.; Pacos/Shriners Racing)
2. Mitch Brekke (Hartland, Minn.; Gray Duck Racing)
3. Ricardo Alanis Saldivar (Mission, Texas; Bikes & More)

Men’s C3 (Cycling) Results:
1. Justin Mathers (Fayetteville, N.C.; Project Ridgeline p/b Irish Cycles)

The third wave featured the Men’s C1-C2, and Women’s C1-C5 categories, each completing seven laps for a total of 53.9 kilometers. In the Men’s C2 race, Adrian Wright (Dillon, S.C.; WrightStrong Elite Cyclists) claimed the national title with a time of 1:55:23. On the women’s side, Tracy Lamarche (Easley, S.C.; Greenville Cycling and Multisport) took the top step in the C2 event.

“It was a really nice day for a race,” said Women’s C5 winner Elizabeth Neag (Medina, Ohio; Cleveland Cycling Academy). “First lap through, it came down to three of us. There was another racer in the C5 category [Kelly Worrell] and then my friend Shawn Morelli. We rode together for most of the race. About halfway through, we opened a gap, so it was just Shawn and I crossing the line together. I left a little in the tank for tomorrow because the Time Trial is coming up, so I am super excited for that!” Shawn Morelli (Leavenworth, Kan.; DNA Cycling) went on to win the Women’s C4 race.

Men’s C2 (Cycling) Results:
1. Adrian Wright (Dillon, S.C.; WrightStrong Elite Cyclists)

Women's C2 (Cycling) Results:
1. Tracy Lamarche (Easley, S.C.; Greenville Cycling and Multisport)

Women's C5 (Cycling) Results:
1. Elizabeth Neag (Medina, Ohio; Cleveland Cycling Academy)
2. Kelly Worrell (Augusta, Ga.)

Women's C4 (Cycling) Results:
1. Shawn Morelli (Leavenworth, Kan.; DNA Cycling)

The second race of the day kicked off with high speeds from the Men’s H3 and H4 races. Riders completed seven laps, covering a total distance of 53.9 kilometers. They started with a fairly large group that stayed together for most of the race. By the last lap, the group dwindled down to two riders, Casey Falkner (Stevensville, Mich.; Mary Free Bed Handcycling) and Todd Richardson (Travelers Rest, S.C.; Alive Day Apparel). Falkner edged out Richardson right at the line, winning the H4 category. Meanwhile, Richardson scored the H3 National Title.

Men’s H3 (Handcycle) Results:
1. Todd Richardson (Travelers Rest, S.C.; Alive Day Apparel)
2. Kevin Hillery (Alexandria, Va.; Paralyzed Veterans of America Racing PB First Nation Group)

Men's H4 (Handcycle) Results:
1. Casey Falkner (Stevensville, Mich.; Mary Free Bed Handcycling)
2. Bryan Lara (Richmond, Va.)
3. Jared Fenstermacher (Bloomsburg, Penn.; Team Skyline Cadence)

In the next race, the Women’s H3 and H4 categories each completed six laps, covering a total of 46.2 kilometers. Gabrielle Platt (Tulsa, Okla.) and Jo Ann Outten Kenton (Harrington, Del.) rode most of the race together, drafting off one another. Platt was able to ride away towards the end of the race, winning the H3 category, while Outten Kenton took the H4 National Title.

Women's H3 (Handcycle) Results:
1. Gabrielle Platt (Tulsa, Okla.)

Women's H4 (Handcycle) Results:
1. Jo Ann Outten Kenton (Harrington, Del.)

Next up were the Men’s and Women’s T2 categories. In the men’s race, Justin Caine (Holt, Mich.) earned the gold medal after completing four laps for a total of 30.8 kilometers. On the women’s side, Sara Whittingham (Aurora, Ohio) and Mandy Kloepfer (Rockford, Ill.; Peace Cycling Performance/CAF) took on the same challenging course, with Whittingham ultimately taking the win.

When asked about her race, Whittingham said, “This is my first time racing on the trike, so the corners are a challenge for me. I was struggling a little bit since I am still trying to get used to it.” Whittingham has found that cycling has helped so many aspects of her life saying, “I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease about five years ago. Cycling is known to slow progressive Parkinson's, so I’ve been really wanting to raise awareness about how important it is to exercise. I am also a veteran and want to raise awareness about veterans with Parkinson’s. As veterans, we can still keep placing and competing. We need to keep fighting to stay healthy. This was a really great experience, and overall a fun day!”

Men’s T2 (Tricycle) Results:
1. Justin Caine (Holt, Mich.)

Women's T2 (Tricycle) Results:
1. Sara Whittingham (Aurora, Ohio)
2. Mandy Kloepfer (Rockford, Ill.; Peace Cycling Performance/CAF)

Up Next
Racing continues tomorrow with the Junior and Para Individual Time Trials. Click here for the full event schedule.

Follow along throughout the week on social media @USACycling, along with the live timing and livestream on FloBikes. Learn more about how to watch the events here.

5/15/2025

Oro Valley and Marana Become a Preferred Training Destination and Home of The Project Echelon Gran Fondo on the Road to Nationals

Project Echelon's Third Consecutive Gran Fondo in Pima County: A Celebration of Veterans, Cycling, and Community
For the third year in a row, Project Echelon returned to Pima County, uniting with Explore Oro Valley and Discover Marana to host an unforgettable Gran Fondo—a ride that goes beyond cycling to uplift and empower veterans. Held on April 5-6, 2025, the event reinforced the mission of endurance sports to support veterans, while showcasing the scenic beauty and welcoming communities of Oro Valley and Marana.

“Pima County, and specifically the communities of Oro Valley and Marana, have become a home away from home for the Project Echelon organization. During the winter months, the desert roads become our training grounds, the restaurants and coffee shops are our social gathering spaces, and the community as a whole offers the perfect setting for our annual Gran Fondo event.” says Eric Hill, Project Echelon President.

A Partnership Built on Purpose
Both Oro Valley and Marana have a deep-rooted commitment to honoring veterans, making this event a natural fit for their values. Both are designated Purple Heart Towns, proudly recognizing the sacrifices made by service members and dedicated to initiatives that promote wellness and support for veterans.
"We are deeply committed to supporting our veterans,” Stefanie Boe, Tourism and Marketing Manager said. “This partnership with Project Echelon not only promotes physical wellness and community engagement but also aligns with our vision to honor those who have served. We are proud to collaborate with Project Echelon and the Town of Oro Valley to create an inclusive and empowering experience for veterans and cyclists alike."
For Oro Valley, known for its dedication to health and outdoor activity, partnering with Project Echelon was an ideal way to merge cycling, wellness, and community engagement into a single event.
"Oro Valley is all about wellness, connection, and supporting our community, so this event felt like a natural fit,” Crystal Franke, Destination Marketing Manager, Town of Oro Valley continued. “It was great seeing veterans, athletes, and supporters ride through our beautiful region. We’re so glad we could be part of it."

The Ride: A Journey Through Scenic Arizona
Cyclists embarked on 50 and 75-mile routes winding through the stunning landscapes of Oro Valley and Marana, making stops at Arizona Heroes Memorial and the Fallen Marine Memorial to reflect on the true meaning behind the event.
Marana, known for its rugged beauty and year-round cycling weather, was a highlight for riders.
"Partnering with Project Echelon for the Gran Fondo Ride is an incredible opportunity to showcase Marana’s scenic roads, welcoming community, and perfect nearly year-round cycling weather,” Boe commented. “We look forward to seeing them return, not just for this event, but as part of their future adventures."
Unlike traditional races, this Gran Fondo was a non-competitive ride, fostering unity among cyclists, veterans, and supporters as they rode together with a shared purpose.

Project Echelon's Presence
Project Echelon’s professional cycling team joined the ride, not to compete, but to mentor and inspire participants. Their involvement reinforced Project Echelon’s mission of using endurance sports to help veterans regain purpose, confidence, and community through structured training and engagement.
"We were incredibly proud to be part of this year's Project Echelon Gran Fondo and support their mission of empowering veterans through cycling,” Franke said. “Oro Valley’s scenic beauty, strong sense of community, and commitment to wellness align perfectly with Project Echelon’s values. It was also an honor to partner with our neighbors in Marana to help bring this meaningful ride to life. The opportunity to connect with the athletes and veterans left a lasting impression on our community and we’re grateful for the experience and look forward to future collaborations."

Looking Ahead
With another successful Gran Fondo completed, the partnership between Project Echelon, Oro Valley, and Marana continues to strengthen. As Project Echelon expands, their professional team sets sights on major competitions, including the 2028 Olympics, proving that cycling is more than just a sport—it’s a vehicle for change.
For those interested in supporting Project Echelon’s mission, donation and registration opportunities are available on their official website.

5/13/2025

The Road to Nationals in Pursuit of a National Championship & Why It Means More Than Winning a Title

Project Echelon looks for more wins at #USPro

When former professional road cyclist Eric Hill had a chance to establish his own bike racing team back in 2016, it had to have a mission bigger than himself. The Waukesha, Wisconsin-based Hill had friends and family members in the military and knew how tough life can be for returning vets. So he founded Project Echelon, an organization that helps veterans, along with Project Echelon Racing Team, a group of North American pros who partner with a variety of veteran organizations.

“Our goal is to donate about 22 percent of sponsorship dollars to veteran programs,” Hill says. “We use our platform not simply to advance our own dreams and aspirations, but also to empower others.” The team has grown from the best in the Midwest to the top domestic team in North America, winning this year’s Tour of the Gila. They’re also a UCI Continental Professional Team, earning invitations around the globe to battle it out with big-budget World Tour teams. “It’s a dog fight to get into those events,” says Hill. “Teams at our level have to be very scrappy and agile.”

Read the full article here.

5/12/2025

A Winning Collaboration: Project Echelon Racing and GoodLife

In the competitive world of cycling, partnerships between racing teams and companies can significantly impact performance and community engagement. One such successful collaboration is between Project Echelon Racing and GoodLife. This partnership not only enhances the performance of cyclists but also supports veteran communities, creating a win-win situation for all involved.

“In the same way Project Echelon strives for excellence, GoodLife prides itself in quality from consumer experience to product and performance,” Project Echelon Racing Director Eric Hill said. “Most recently, the team came off a training camp in Tucson, AZ where GoodLife provided our daily meals, making meal planning easy and stress free. Those little things have added up to wins in North America's most important races.”

Who and What is GoodLife?

GoodLife is built on two pillars: GoodLife Brands and GoodLife Nutrition. GoodLife Brands focuses on sourcing high-quality, responsibly sourced proteins, such as Certified Piedmontese and Wixter Seafood. They partner directly with farmers and producers who care about the land, animals, and the people they feed. Their products are delivered directly to customers' doors, ensuring that the meat arrives still frozen and fresh, no matter where in the country it is shipped. On the other hand, GoodLife Nutrition offers clean, effective supplements for performance, recovery, and overall wellness. Whether training for a triathlon, an intense event like RAM, or simply needing extra electrolytes during the day, GoodLife Nutrition provides products to fuel various goals.

The Mission and Values

“Goodlife's mission is deeply rooted in supporting good people and good causes,” commented Goodlife’s Sofia Gibson. “We believe that both physical and mental health are foundational parts of life and reintegration after service. This mission aligns perfectly with Project Echelon's goals, making their partnership a natural fit. Project Echelon is dedicated to empowering veterans through physical activity and self-discovery, which resonates with GoodLife's everyday efforts.”

Supporting Project Echelon at Training Camp

During a recent training camp in Tucson, GoodLife provided a variety of products to support Project Echelon's athletes. They sent electrolytes, carbs, protein powders, and high-quality meats like steaks, chicken, and hot dogs. This comprehensive approach to fueling ensured that the athletes were well-nourished not only during their training rides but also during their meals together. These shared meals fostered camaraderie and strengthened bonds among team members, highlighting the importance of intentional time spent together.”.

Customized Nutrition for Athletes GoodLife works closely with Project Echelon to understand their specific needs for training camps and events. They consider the number of people, meal plans, and any special requirements to provide tailored nutrition solutions. This collaborative approach ensures that the athletes receive the best possible support to achieve their goals.

Impact on Everyday Individuals GoodLife's commitment to providing premium, sustainably sourced meat and clean, functional nutrition products extends beyond elite athletes. They cater to a wide range of people, from world-class athletes to weekend riders and those simply looking to eat better. GoodLife's holistic approach to nutrition focuses on fueling the body with real ingredients that support overall health, including performance, recovery, digestion, sleep, and mental clarity.

Education and Transparency GoodLife places a strong emphasis on education and transparency. They provide detailed information about their products, including ingredients and their benefits, to help customers make informed choices. This commitment to transparency ensures that people know exactly what they are putting into their bodies, fostering trust and confidence in GoodLife's products.

The partnership between Project Echelon Racing and GoodLife exemplifies the power of collaboration in achieving shared goals. Together, we are making a positive impact on the lives of athletes and veterans, promoting physical and mental well-being, and fostering a sense of community. This winning collaboration is a testament to the transformative power of good people doing good things. For more information, about GoodLife and how they can help make your life more healthy and tasty, visit their website at GoodLife Proteins.

4/1/2025

Project Echelon Racing Partners with Rusty Dogs of War to Inspire Change and Champion Inclusivity in Cycling

April 3, 2025 – Project Echelon Racing is excited to announce its partnership with Rusty Dogs of War, a team dedicated to redefining the landscape of cycling by showcasing the legitimacy of racing on diverse bike platforms and breaking barriers for Challenged Athletes and Disabled Veterans.

Rusty Dogs of War, led by CEO Caleb Cline, a US and World Champion in ultra-distance cycling and adaptive bike disciplines—is on a mission to inspire a community of capable, uniquely abled athletes. Caleb's journey began five years ago when he sought a new sense of purpose after transitioning out of the military and overcoming the physical and emotional challenges that followed. Against medical advice, Caleb defied limitations to prove that alternative cycling platforms, such as recumbent trikes, could compete at the highest levels. Today, Rusty Dogs of War advocates for using endurance sports as a tool to reclaim control, heal, and grow stronger.

“I felt lost and alone after being told I couldn’t participate in the activities that gave my life purpose and identity,” Caleb shared. “But I realized that physical fitness and consistency aren’t just about sport or warrior preparedness—they’re vital for mental health and stress management. I decided not to accept limits imposed on me, but to fight back and show the world that no obstacle is insurmountable.”

This partnership allows Project Echelon Racing and Rusty Dogs of War to amplify their shared mission to empower athletes and veterans, encouraging them to embrace life without limits. Through events like coordinating meetups along the Rusty Dogs’ Race Across America (RAAM) route and a collaborative documentary currently in production, both organizations aim to bring their inspirational stories to a global audience.

“Our collaboration with Rusty Dogs of War embodies the spirit of perseverance, inclusivity, and innovation that Project Echelon stands for,” said Joshua Boguslofski, Executive Director of Veteran Affairs at Project Echelon Racing. “Together, we hope to inspire countless individuals to overcome barriers and pursue their dreams.”

The documentary will highlight the impact of this partnership, serving as a beacon for athletes worldwide and demonstrating the power of determination and unity in the pursuit of excellence. Project Echelon Racing and Rusty Dogs of War are committed to changing the Paralympic landscape, making it more inclusive and accessible to all deserving competitors.

For media inquiries, please contact:

David Barr
Public Relations Coordinator
[email protected] C: 479-387-5290

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