The American Cycling Report

This week on The American Cycling Report—we’re going big. Because when you talk about the modern era of American cycling—road, gravel, the whole evolution of the sport—you cannot tell that story without Pete Stetina. This is a guy who raced at the absolute highest level of the sport, lining up in the biggest races in the world, doing the work, earning the respect, and living the full WorldTour grind. But what makes Pete different isn’t just what he did there—it’s what he did after. Because when everything changed—when the crash, the setbacks, and the questions hit—Pete didn’t fade out. He reinvented. He helped define what gravel racing could look like in the U.S.—not just as a competitor, but as a builder, a connector, and a guy shaping the culture in real time. And now, it’s another turning point. Pete is stepping into a new phase—pulling back from elite competition, doubling down on community, on events like Stetina’s Paydirt, and on what impact in this sport really means when the racing days start to shift. So this is not just a career retrospective. This is a conversation about longevity, about identity, about risk, reinvention—and ultimately, legacy. Strap in—this is a big one. Pete Stetina, right here on The American Cycling Report.

Chad Sperry is one of the most respected event organizers in American cycling and the man behind Breakaway Productions. With a track record that includes legendary races like the over 25 USA Cycling National Championship events, the Cascade Classic and the Tour of Utah, Chad has spent decades building events that racers genuinely care about. These days, he’s channeling that experience into Oregon Trail Gravel—one of the most unique and ambitious stage races in the gravel space. Known as a tireless worker and a true “for the racers” promoter, Chad brings a grounded, no-nonsense perspective to an evolving sport. In this episode, we dive into the origins of his biggest events, what he’s learned from years in the trenches, and how he sees the future of cycling continuing to take shape.

This weeks guest is one of those rare figures in cycling who doesn’t just participate in the sport—he shapes it. Chris Tolley is the engine behind Austin’s iconic Driveway Series, a weeknight crit that’s grown from a local race into a full-blown community phenomenon. Chris is a racer in his own right, but what really sets him apart is his ability to bring people together—new riders, seasoned pros, and everyone in between—under the lights for something that feels bigger than just a race. The Driveway isn’t just about watts and results; it’s about culture, consistency, and creating a place where cycling actually thrives. He’s built a following, a vibe, and honestly, a bit of a cult of personality around what grassroots racing can look like when it’s done right. So today, we’re digging into how it all started, what keeps it going, and why the Driveway Series might just be a blueprint for the future of American bike racing. Chris Tolley—welcome to the show.

Today’s guest is someone who proves that experience, dedication, and passion for the sport can take you a very long way in a very short time. Mark Tucker of the Meteor Masters Team is the reigning USA Cycling Masters National Champion in the Men’s 50–54 Time Trial, and he’s built an incredible reputation in the masters peloton. Mark came into high-level racing later than many riders, but what he’s accomplished since then is remarkable—racking up wins, national titles, and the respect of competitors across the country. He’s known not only for his power in the time trial, but also for the professionalism, sportsmanship, and leadership he brings to the racing community. Beyond the results sheet, Mark is widely regarded as a true class act—someone who represents what masters racing is all about: hard work, community, and a love of the bike. So today we’re going to talk with Mark about his path into competitive cycling, what it takes to win a national championship in your 50s, the level of competition in masters racing right now, and the teams and races that really define the scene. Mark Tucker, welcome to The American Cycling Report.

  Welcome back to the American Cycling Report.   Today we’re talking about one of the true builders of American bike racing — a guy who doesn’t chase the spotlight, but quietly keeps the sport moving forward. Bruce Dunn is a salt-of-the-earth race promoter who’s spent years putting in the hard work to give riders a place to compete and communities something to rally around.   When the legendary Joe Martin Stage Race disappeared from the calendar, it left a huge hole in American road racing. But Bruce didn’t step away from the sport — he doubled down. He’s been creating standout gravel events like The Highlands and The Skirmish, races that capture the grit and spirit that makes American cycling special. And he’s not stopping there. Bruce is also working to launch the Tour of Arkansas, a project that could become a major new stage race in the U.S.   Simply put, cycling needs more people like him — the folks who do the work behind the scenes so the rest of us can pin on a number and race our bikes.   So today we’re excited to welcome Bruce Dunn to the American Cycling Report.

The best cycling events aren't just races — they're gatherings. The kind of thing people rearrange their calendars for, drive hours to get to, and talk about long after the finish line. Bryan Yates built one of those. The Bovine Classic didn't come with a playbook — it came with passion, community, and a very clear sense of purpose. In this episode, Bryan joins us to talk about how an event finds its place, and how you grow something worth growing.

Today’s guest is an absolute force of nature. Breanne Nalder is a former professional racer who has taken that same competitive fire and poured it straight into building some of the most exciting events in the sport. From the dirt roads of the Utah Gravel Series, to the high-speed chaos of SLC Crits Weekend, to the epic challenge of the Utah Challenge Fondo — she’s not just participating in cycling culture… she’s shaping it. High energy, relentlessly passionate, and somehow balancing it all as a mom of two, Breanne represents the modern evolution of our sport: athlete turned entrepreneur, competitor turned community builder. We’re talking racing, organizing, the grind behind the scenes, and what it really takes to create events that riders can’t stop talking about. So buckle up — this is going to be a fun one. Let’s get into it.

Today’s guest is someone whose fingerprints are all over modern cycling culture, whether you realize it or not. Michael Marckx is best known as the founder of the Belgian Waffle Ride — an event that smashed together road racing, gravel, suffering, and just the right amount of madness. But what’s remarkable is that BWR isn’t the story. It’s the result of a life spent immersed in bikes, media, creativity, and big swings. Michael has lived multiple careers inside one lifetime — journalist, editor, marketing mind, entrepreneur, and experience architect — navigating the ever-changing cycling industry while somehow staying both relevant and rebellious. What unfolds in this episode is more than an event origin story. It’s a conversation about vision, resilience, reinvention, and what happens when passion and stubbornness collide in the best possible way. And fair warning — by the end, you may agree with me: this probably should’ve been a two-part episode. Here’s my conversation with Michael Marckx.

My guest today is someone whose fingerprint is all over modern American endurance mountain biking. Mike McCormack is the founder and race director of the Breck Epic—an event that’s become more than just a stage race. It’s a proving ground, a reunion, and for many riders, a defining week on the bike. But what really sets Mike apart isn’t just the courses or the competition—it’s the culture. He takes enormous pride not only in the race itself, but in the people who make it happen. From volunteers to crew to longtime staff, Mike talks about his team with genuine gratitude and respect, and you can feel how much that matters to him. This is a conversation about building something that lasts, about leadership, about community—and about caring deeply for the people who stand next to you when the start gun goes off. Mike McCormack, on The American Cycling Report.

Welcome back to The American Cycling Report, where we bring you the athletes and stories shaping the future of American cycling. Today’s guest is one of the defining figures of modern gravel racing — a rider known for fearless long-range attacks, relentless endurance, and a habit of riding away from the field when the race gets hard. Oh yeah, she's one of the greatest comeback stories in cyclings history too...... She’s a winner of Unbound Gravel, a multiple-time champion at Rad Dirt Fest, victorious at SBT GRVL, The Mid South, and Levi’s Gran Fondo, and a consistent podium presence at the biggest gravel events in North America. When the course is long, rough, and unforgiving, she’s proven time and again that she belongs at the front. It’s a pleasure to welcome to the show — Lauren De Crescenzo.

Sunday… Sunday… Suuuuunday!   Yeah this Sunday February 1st........   Clear your calendar, charge your lights, and maybe start stretching those hamstrings — because Old Man Winter is rolling into Lyons, Colorado, and he does not care if you’ve been training. This weekend, cyclists and runners alike will line up for one of the most unique endurance throw-downs in the country — a cold-weather, mixed-terrain, suffer-fest celebration where grit matters more than glory and smiles freeze solid before the finish line. And today on The American Cycling Report, we’re talking to the man behind the madness — Josh Kravetz, founder and organizer of the Old Man Winter Rally. With only a few spots left and race day just days away, we’re diving into how this event came to life, why it’s become a cult classic on the endurance calendar, and what keeps people coming back year after year… even when their water bottles turn to slush. So zip up that jacket, grab a hot coffee, and settle in — because Old Man Winter is coming… and Josh Kravetz is here to tell us why.   https://www.oldmanwinterrally.com/    

Welcome to the American Cycling Report — the home of the stories, the voices, and the people who make this sport special. Today, we’re shining the spotlight on a true cycling journeyman, a community builder, and one of the most genuinely awesome humans you’ll find anywhere on two wheels — Sam Ames. Sam is the founder and fearless creative force behind The Rock Cobbler, gravel cycling’s wildest, weirdest, and most carefree adventure. It’s not just a race — it’s a celebration of grit, camaraderie, questionable decision-making, and unforgettable memories in the hills of Bakersfield. Now entering its 13th year, The Rock Cobbler returns February 7th, 2026, and if you’ve ever wanted to experience riding at its most free-spirited and authentic — this is your invitation. Sam Ames has built more than an event. He’s built a family, a culture, and a rite of passage for cyclists who believe the ride should be as meaningful as the finish line. So buckle up, get your tires ready, and come join us — because Cobbler isn’t just something you do… it’s something you survive, laugh through, and remember forever. Let’s welcome the man himself — Sam Ames.   The Bull  :  https://youtu.be/3B70tjKpuF8?si=kalOVbi2gKzBq15B   The Living Room  :  https://youtu.be/RNhZ6qUxLAo?si=ys40kIhLXuC6RMtJ

“Welcome back to the show. Today we have a very special spotlight on two of the most influential figures in gravel cycling — Sofia Gibson and Jason Strohbehn — the heart and soul behind what has become Nebraska’s flagship gravel event, Gravel Worlds.” “From humble beginnings in Lincoln, Nebraska, Gravel Worlds has grown over more than a decade into one of the most respected gravel gatherings in the United States — a place where elite racers and everyday riders alike come together to push boundaries, build community, and celebrate the adventure of riding bikes on gravel. What started as a grassroots event has evolved into an international festival of endurance sport that welcomes riders from around the globe, challenges bodies and spirits, and redefines what a gravel event can be.” “At the center of that growth are Jason — Chief Experience Officer and lead promoter — and Sofia — Assistant Lead Promoter and Outreach Coordinator. Jason’s vision for a truly inclusive, rider-first experience has shaped Gravel Worlds into more than a race — it’s a culture, a community, and a platform where people truly feel welcome. Sofia’s commitment to outreach and encouragement connects that culture to every rider, from elite competitors to first-time gravel adventurers. Together they’ve stewarded an event that honors the grit of the sport while never losing its humanity.” “This year’s Gravel Worlds takes that ambition to a new level. With expanded live broadcast coverage and one of the largest gravel prize purses in the sport’s history, the event is redefining what’s possible for American gravel racing — pushing the visibility of the sport while affirming a responsibility to grow remaining accessible and meaningful for age-group riders and future generations of gravel enthusiasts.” “We’ll talk with Sofia and Jason about why broadcast matters, how prize money and sustainability intersect with grassroots values, and what it takes to balance elite competition with rider experience across thousands of participants. And stay tuned — they’ve hinted at a huge announcement next week that could change the landscape of gravel racing even further.” “Before we dive in, if you haven’t already, check out their official event details at gravelworlds.com — and prepare to be inspired by people who’ve made great things happen through passion, community, and pedal power.”

Today on The American Cycling Report, we’re joined by one of the most influential figures in American bike racing — Malcolm McCollam, the mastermind behind Tulsa Tough, widely regarded as the greatest criterium series in the United States. Now celebrating its 20th year under Malcolm’s leadership, Tulsa Tough has grown from a local experiment into a national showcase for elite racing, massive crowds, and a festival atmosphere that few events anywhere in the world can match. It’s become the gold standard for how criterium racing can thrive in America. Outside of cycling, Malcolm is a practicing attorney, but make no mistake — he’s also very much one of us. A lifelong runner and cyclist, he understands the sport not just as an organizer, but as an athlete who knows what makes racing meaningful, difficult, and worth showing up for year after year. We’re going to talk about the origins of Tulsa Tough, how it reached this level of scale and cultural impact, what it takes to sustain a major race for two decades, and what Malcolm sees ahead for criterium racing and American cycling as a whole. Malcolm McCollam, welcome to The American Cycling Report.

This week on The American Cycling Report, we sit down with Mike Weiss, the driving force behind St. Louis–based Big Shark Bicycle Company and the longtime organizer of the iconic Gateway Cup. For more than three decades, Mike has been a central architect of American bike racing—building events that span the full spectrum of the sport, from grassroots criteriums to nationally recognized series. In this conversation, we explore how the Gateway Cup has not only survived but evolved, the behind-the-scenes realities of race promotion in today’s cycling economy, and what it takes to sustain community-first events in a changing landscape. We also dig into the relationship between retail, advocacy, and racing; the lessons learned from organizing dozens of events; and Mike’s candid perspective on where U.S. criterium and grit racing are headed next. If you care about the past, present, and future of American bike racing—and the people who keep it alive—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

“Today on The American Cycling Report, we’re joined by one of the most accomplished and versatile riders in American cycling. Lauren Stephens has built a career defined by consistency at the very top level — a national champion on both the road and in gravel, and a rider who has won many of the biggest races in the United States. Whether it’s long, selective road races or the toughest gravel events on the calendar, Lauren has proven she can win across disciplines. In this conversation, we’ll talk about her path to the top, how she balances road and gravel at the elite level, what it takes to stay competitive year after year, and where she sees American cycling headed next. Lauren Stephens, welcome to The American Cycling Report.”

Today on The American Cycling Report, we’re joined by someone who has been at the center of major American bike racing for more than three decades. Steve Brunner is a veteran event organizer and one of the most respected marketers in the sport. His work spans everything from the legendary Tour Du Pont and the Tour of California, to the USA Pro Challenge, Tour of Alberta, and of course the Maryland Cycling Classic, where he played a key role in bringing top-tier racing back to the U.S. Few people have had a closer view of the rise, fall, and ongoing rebuilding of professional road racing in America. Today we’ll talk with Steve about the craft of putting on world-class events, the challenges the sport faces, and where he sees the future of American racing heading.

Three-time U.S. Pro Criterium National Champion Luke Lamperti — one of the most electric American sprinters in decades — is officially joining EF Education–EasyPost, and we’ve got him on The American Cycling Report. We talk Olympics in LA and his dreams, Tour de France for 2026 and a lot more! The Santa Rosa native talks about the next big chapter of his career, what it means to step onto one of the world’s most dynamic WorldTour teams, his journey from NorCal prodigy to national champion, and where he sees American racing heading in 2025 and beyond. Lamperti brings power, personality, and the kind of finishing speed U.S. cycling has been waiting for. Don’t miss this one.

Welcome back to the American Cycling Report. Today we’re joined by a leader who’s shaping the future of American bike racing — Eric Hill, founder and team director of Project Echelon. In this episode, we dig into the state of racing in the U.S., what it really takes to run a competitive team, and the challenges and opportunities facing the sport as it looks ahead. Eric brings incredible insight, honesty, and passion to the conversation — and you’re going to come away with a clearer picture of where American cycling is headed.

In Episode 15, Dave Towle sits down with one of the most influential event creators in American cycling: Carlos Perez, the visionary behind Bike Monkey, Levi’s GranFondo, and a long list of events that have helped define modern American mass-participation cycling. In This Episode Levi’s GranFondo: Carlos recounts the origins, the magic, the community, and the future of one of the most beloved rides in the U.S. 👉 And don’t miss it — Levi’s GranFondo is a must-watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/9ZOQasEHdto?si=4A3vsK5uAh9onV2T Stetina’s Paydirt: How Bike Monkey helped shape this gravel-meets-adventure spectacle, and why it stands out in a crowded gravel landscape. Rebecca’s Private Idaho: The evolution of RPI as a world-class gravel experience, and what Bike Monkey has learned from working with major athlete-driven events. The State of the Sport: Dave and Carlos dig into: The booming gravel scene The future of mass-participation events Community as the engine of cycling growth What’s working — and what isn’t — in American cycling today About Carlos Perez & Bike Monkey Bike Monkey has produced some of the most iconic rides, races, and experiences in cycling. From endurance gravel to marquee fondos, Carlos and his team have shaped the sport in ways riders feel every weekend across the country.