US squad Ritte have announced their lineup ahead of their second visit to An Post Rás na mBan in September.
Katie Donovan returns to Ireland for a second year as a guest of the squad and is once again likely to be the west coast outfit’s best GC hope. The full time pro was 14th overall in 2013 and with a clear understanding of the challenges of the event will be sure to feature this year.
Team captain Kelli Samuelson crashed out on stage one 12 months ago and, after following the race from the sidelines last year, is fired up to race for top results and a coveted Rás na mBan finisher’s medal.
“After my 1st stage crash last year, I’m more then determined to return this year with with more knowledge and a better expectation of the race,” says Samuelson. “I’m really excited for this years squad and feel we have a really good chance at a GC position.”
Another strong contender for overall honours is Abby Mickey of Colorado who has enjoyed a strong season with the Twenty 16 pro team and the US national lineup.
Priscilla Calderon of Los Angeles is the designated team sprinter looking to get involved in the big group finishes in her first international race. The roster is completed by Danish guest Amalie Olsen, a two-time Rás na mBan rider with Team Rytger, who has raced in the US this year. The team will be directed by US cycling star Robin Farina and managed by Dubliner Murt Rice.
