Redlands, Calif. — March 24, 2009 — As the anticipation builds for the 25th running of the Redlands Bicycle Classic, the U.S. Handcycling Federation has finalized its 2009 start list. As with the 2008 edition the RBC kicks off the eight-round U.S. Handcycling Series, but unlike ‘08 this year’s event will feature nearly double the amount of athletes. Nearly thirty handcyclists are set to do battle over three days of racing, beginning with an uphill time trial Thursday, March 26th.

Among those favored for glory are; Carlos Moleda, a former Navy SEAL and Ironman world record holder (wheel chair athlete); Monica Bascio a former world handcycling champion (’02) and 2-time U.S. National Handcycling Champion; David Randall the defending U.S. Handcycling Series overall champion (long-seat); Erica Davis defending RBC champion (women’s division); Matt Updike former 2-time U.S. National Handcycling champion and ’08 Olympic Team member; and Scott McNeice winner of the ’08 RBC and defending U.S. Handcycling Series champion (knee-seat).

“I’m impressed by the level of talent attending this year’s event,” said Race Director Dan Rendler. “With names like McNeice, Davis, Randall, Moleda, Updike, and Bascio attending our event it is easy to see why handcycling has become a core piece of our race, it’s going to be an exciting event!”

This year’s Redlands Bicycle Classic kicks of Thursday, March 26th and the PossAbilities handcyclists will be the first to tackle the grueling uphill time trial course. Be sure to tune into www.redlandsclassic.com for up to date info and results.

2009 Redlands Bicycle Classic Handcycle Roster:

Harold Bostick

David Lind

Bret Richards

Mike Young

Robert Ackerman

Seth Arseneau

Dan Davies

Geoff Hopkins

Keith Melvill

Jake O’Connor

David Randall

Rodger Robinson

Matt Updike

Jordan Wailen

David Bailey

Paul Mannochio

Carlos Moleda

Mike Sprouse

Don Caron

Niel Harding

Harold Warner

Alejandro Albor

Chris Ayres

Scott McNeice

Scott Seiss

Erica Davis

Tara Llanes

Monica (Lawless) Bascio

Katie Terry

For more information, including race times, distances, and volunteer opportunities, visit www.redlandsclassic.com.