Cyclists Descend on Marana to Race The Clock!

Marana Time Trial: A Thrilling Ride!

600+ Riders Take on the Marana Time Trial!

The Town of Marana, and the Town of Oro Valley team up to showcase northern Pima County's outstanding cycling terrain! The event happens each February, attracting 600+ riders.

What is a Time Trial?
2025 Overview
2025 Day 1 Recap
2025 Day 2 Recap
2025 Day 3 Recap
2025 Overall Results
About the Tucson Bicycle Classic
The Vegan Cyclist Rides Marana

What is a time trial?

A time trial is cycling's purest test. In a time trial, riders race alone down a set course, setting off one after the other at regular intervals. The clock starts for each of them when they roll down the start ramp and stops for each of them when they cross the finish line.

The Marana Time Trial Prologue is a short, flat 4.5 mile / 7.2 km point-to-point course. The course uses a new section of the Chuck Huckelberry Loop passing by two parks and beautiful mountain vistas.

Spectators are welcome to come and enjoy this event and cheer on the riders as they race against the clock.

4 Races. 3 Days. 1 Bike.

By: Bekah Collins, Marketing Director, TBC

The Tucson Bicycle Classic (TBC) has long been a cornerstone of the American cycling calendar, and its 37th edition reaffirmed its significance with a thrilling display of athleticism and community engagement. Spanning three days and featuring four distinct races, the 2025 TBC not only challenged elite cyclists but also showcased Tucson's commitment to fostering a premier cycling environment.

Tucson: A Cyclist's Paradise
Tucson's allure for cyclists is undeniable. With its mild winter climate, the city becomes a haven for teams from around the globe seeking optimal training conditions. The region boasts an extensive network of smooth roads and diverse terrains, catering to both amateur and professional riders. A crown jewel among these is Mount Lemmon, a 21-mile ascent with an average gradient of 5%, offering cyclists a challenging climb from the desert floor to pine-covered peaks.

Recognizing the needs of the cycling community, TBC organizers have strategically timed the event to coincide with the Valley of the Sun race in Phoenix. This scheduling allows teams to participate in consecutive weekends of high-caliber racing without incurring significant additional costs. This collaboration, born from feedback within the cycling community, has solidified Arizona's position on the early-season racing calendar.

Marana Time Trial
The start of the Marana Time Trial on the Loop in Marana

Elevating the Race Experience
In response to the evolving landscape of competitive cycling, TBC introduced significant enhancements to this year's event. The addition of the Rio Nuevo Criterium, presented by Visit Tucson, brought a new level of excitement. Set against the vibrant backdrop of downtown Tucson, this nighttime criterium featured a fast-paced, technical course that challenged even the most seasoned riders.

The final day's Oro Valley Circuit Race, presented by Rutledge Dental, also saw a transformative redesign. The new 2.8-mile course in Naranja Park featured a challenging uphill finish on Musette Drive, offering both participants and spectators breathtaking views of the Catalina Mountains. This course not only tested the riders' endurance but also provided multiple prime viewing spots, enhancing the spectator experience.

Day 1: Marana Time Trial Prologue

The TBC commenced with the Marana Time Trial Prologue, a 7.2 km point-to-point race along the newly extended Chuck Huckleberry Loop. This extension, a collaborative effort between the Town of Marana and CalPortland, provided riders with a fresh and challenging course. The flat terrain was deceptive, as the notorious Santa Cruz winds added an unexpected layer of difficulty.

In the Women's Pro/1/2 category, Virginia's Blue Ridge TWENTY28 team dominated the stage, with Anna Hicks securing the leader's jersey.

The Men's Pro/1/2 field saw fierce competition, with Elouan Gardot of Fount Racing edging out Project Echelon's Jonas Walton by a mere five seconds to claim the top spot.

PicturedAnna Hicks of TWENTY28 takes first place in the Marana Time Trial
CreditResul Kurtbedin Photography

As the sun set, downtown Tucson transformed into a vibrant racecourse for the inaugural Rio Nuevo Criterium, presented by Visit Tucson. This technical, nighttime criterium featured sharp turns and an uphill sprint finish, challenging riders' agility and endurance.

Spectators lined the illuminated streets, energized by the dynamic commentary of renowned announcers Brad Sohner and James Grady. Team TWENTY28 continued their dominance in the women's race, executing a strategic performance that led to another podium sweep, with Marlies Mejías-García taking first place. Anna Hicks retained the leader's jersey heading into Day 2.

In the men's race, the competition was fierce, with Above and Beyond Cancer and Team California exchanging blows throughout. Despite multiple solo breakaway attempts, the race concluded with Nathan Cusack of Kelly Benefits Cycling Team taking the win, propelling Jonas Walton into the General Classification (GC) lead going into day 2.

PicturedRio Nuevo Downtown Tucson Criterium: Stage 1B - Pro Women Marlies Mejias Garcia (Virginia's Blue Ridge TWENTY28) wins.
CreditResul Kurtbedin Photography

Day 2: Sahuarita Road Race

The second day transported the peloton to Sahuarita for the Road Race, a 20.3-mile loop run in reverse on the famed Shootout Route—a nationally recognized group ride. The course's rolling terrain, combined with midday winds, tested the riders' endurance and strategy.

In the Women's Pro/1/2 field, Team TWENTY28 maintained a steady pace, effectively controlling the peloton to protect their GC leader, Anna Hicks. Their strategy was impeccable, securing time bonus sprints and dominating the race. After completing four laps, Rylee McMullen sprinted to victory, leading a 1-2-3 finish for TWENTY28, with Tucson local Sofia Arreola in second and Marlies Mejías-García in third. Teammate Ella Sabo secured fourth place, solidifying the team's stronghold on the GC.

The Men's Pro/1/2 race was marked by aggressive breakaway attempts. Midway through the race, two riders—one from iSpeed and another from Landis—managed to break away, maintaining their lead for a full lap before being reeled back in during the final lap. The race culminated in a sprint finish, with Nathan Cusack once again demonstrating his sprinting prowess to secure the stage win. By day's end, Jonas Walton retained a narrow GC lead over Patrick Welch of Above and Beyond Cancer.

PicturedNathan Cusack crossing the finish line for the win in Sahuarita
CreditResul Kurtbedin Photography

Day 3: Oro Valley Circuit Race

The final day introduced the eagerly awaited Oro Valley Circuit Race, a project three years in the making. Thanks to the support of Oro Valley and Rutledge Dental, the 2.8-mile course featured a steady (almost) one-mile climb culminating in a hilltop finish with panoramic views of Naranja Park and the Catalina Mountains. Riders also navigated a fast descent through the Monterra Vista neighborhood, with enhanced safety measures ensuring a thrilling yet secure race.

Riders lauded the course's design, with stage winner Nathan Cusack describing it as "the most like a Belgian Kermesse I've ridden in the U.S." The combination of challenging climbs and rapid descents provided opportunities for various rider types to showcase their strengths.

PicturedA group of cyclists race to the finish line in Oro Valley, Arizona
CreditResul Kurtbedin Photography

So who won?

In the Women's Pro/1/2 race, Team TWENTY28 faced increased pressure as competitors aimed to disrupt their GC dominance. However, Anna Hicks showcased her climbing prowess, leading the charge up the ascents with apparent ease. This relentless effort discouraged rivals, and in the final sprint, Sofia Arreola clinched first place, with Marlies Mejías-García in second and local legend Cara O'Neill of Bicycle Ranch Tucson Racing securing third. Anna Hicks's consistent performance throughout the weekend crowned her the 2025 TBC Women's GC champion.

Tucson Bicycle Classic Women's Pro Winners 2025
Tucson Bicycle Classic Women's Pro Winners 2025 (credit: Winsome Media)


The Men's Pro/1/2 race was equally intense, marked by continuous attacks and counterattacks. A significant breakaway formed mid-race, including key contenders like Patrick Welch (Above and Beyond Cancer), who was eager to overturn his GC deficit. Despite the breakaway's potential, strategic team decisions led to its reintegration into the peloton. In the ensuing sprint finish, Nathan Cusack once again demonstrated his sprinting prowess, securing the stage win. This result propelled Patrick Welch to surpass Jonas Walton in the overall standings, earning him the Men's GC title for Above and Beyond Cancer.

Tucson Bicycle Classic Mens Winners 2025
Tucson Bicycle Classic Mens Pro Winners (credit: Winsome Media)

What was the best part about the course?

Haven’t experienced this incredible ride yet? Add it to your must-ride list--take it from this year's competitors.

About the Tucson Bicycle Classic

The Tucson Bicycle Classic is a 3-day competitive stage race scheduled to take place each February in Marana, Oro Valley, Sahuarita, and Downtown Tucson. TBC is USA Cycling sanctioned, and offers equal cash purses for male and female athletes. Proceeds from this event will benefit El Grupo Youth Cycling, a nonprofit youth cycling organization in Tucson that empowers youth and encourages a lifelong love of riding. For more information visit the Tucson Bicycle Classic website.

Marana and Oro Valley Working Together to Highlight Great Cycling

The strategic decision to shift stages to Marana and Oro Valley is a result of collaborative efforts between the two towns and the Tucson Bicycle Classic organizers. Countless hours have been dedicated behind the scenes to ensure a seamless transition and enhance the overall experience for racers and spectators alike. The coordination led to spectacular events in both towns as well as the 2024 Arizona Office of Tourism Best Regional Partnership Award!

This move aims to underscore the exceptional cycling opportunities that northern Pima County has to offer, reinforcing the region's status as a premier destination for cyclists – whether they race or ride bikes for fun or fitness. Mountain biking, gravel riding, and street cycling are all options in Marana and Oro Valley!

Both towns also worked together to support the Project Echelon Gran Fondo ride and have teamed up again for the 2025 event as well.

PicturedPictured: AOT Executive Director Lisa Urias, Marana Tourism & Marketing Manager Stefanie Boe, CED Director Paul Melcher.
CreditArizona Office of Tourism

2024 Event Recap

600+ Riders Race Against the Clock

Day 1 – Marana Time Trial (recap courtesy of Tucson Bicycle Classic)

The 36th Tucson Bicycle Classic kicked off with an inaugural event that would set a high bar for the days to follow: the Marana Time Trial. This year marked a significant first for the classic, introducing a race in Marana, a small yet innovative suburb of Tucson. Known for its forward-thinking community, Marana eagerly embraced its role as host, displaying its commitment to excellence with a meticulously prepared course that left no detail to chance.

The time trial, a true test of individual prowess, featured a short, flat, 8km out-and-back route that demanded both strategic pacing and raw power. Competitors faced the challenge of balancing their energy throughout the race, aiming to maintain a blistering pace without succumbing to the fatigue that could jeopardize their overall standing in the opening stage of the competition.

Emerging as the day’s standout, Brendan Rhim of Project Echelon delivered an extraordinary performance that left spectators and competitors alike in awe. Clocking an impressive time of 8:56, Rhim not only clinched the fastest time of the day but also established a formidable 6-second lead over Troy Fields of Team California. This early advantage set the tone for Rhim’s campaign in the Classic, positioning him as the rider to watch in the ensuing stages.

CreditDamion Alexander

The women’s W1/2 race was equally gripping, with a nail-biting finish that underscored the depth of talent in the field. Marlies Mejias of Virginia Blue Ridge TWENTY24 and Alia Shafi of Fount Cycling Guild engaged in a fierce duel that came down to milliseconds, highlighting the competitive spirit and exceptional skill of the women’s pro teams. Mejias’ razor-thin victory not only earned her the stage win but also set up a tantalizing narrative for the battle for the General Classification.

The day’s events in Marana encapsulated the essence of time-trialing, where every second counts and every pedal stroke can make the difference between triumph and defeat. As competitors pushed themselves to the limit against the backdrop of Marana’s innovative landscape, the Tucson Bicycle Classic affirmed its reputation as a premiere event in the cycling calendar, setting up dramatic narratives and rivalries that would unfold in the days to come.

Click here to read more about day 2 of this three day event!

CreditTucson Bicycle Classic

And the Winners Are...

Day 3: Oro Valley Circuit Race

In the W1/2 category, Sofia Arreola entered the day with a commanding lead in the General Classification. Although a major shake-up seemed unlikely, the anticipation for a riveting sprint finish was high. Team TWENTY24 made it clear from the outset they had two goals: protect Sofia’s GC lead and force the race to come down to a sprint so Mejias could grab a stage win.

The teamwork displayed by TWENTY24 was textbook perfection, as they masterfully controlled the race to prevent any successful breakaways, setting the stage for a mass sprint to the finish. Marlies Mejias rose to the occasion, clinching a stage win, while Sofia Arreola secured her victory in the General Classification.

PicturedSofia Arreola (Virginia Blue Ridge TWENTY24) takes the Stage 2 Sahuarita Road Race and wins the overall race on Day 3 in her category
CreditTucson Bicycle Classic

Stage 3 for the Men's Division

The M1/2 race was aggressive from the moment riders exited the neutral zone. The race was incredibly tight going into day 3, and truly anyone’s game. Project Echelon, Team California, CS Velo and Automatic Abus launched nonstop attacks as they jockeyed for domination and intermediate sprint points. Every lap riders were shelled out the back and our field of 130 was quickly whittled down to roughly half that.

With 4 laps to go, Project Echelon’s Laurent Gervais (who sat 12 seconds off GC), and Brendan Rhim launched out of the intermediate sprint into a breakaway. They managed to stay away and together for about 2 laps until Laurent dropped back into the pack. Brendan – who had held GC leader going into day 2 and tragically lost it – soloed away, slowly gaining on the chase. With time bonuses and intermediate sprint points, he needed to hold 25 seconds on the group to lock in GC.

Legendary announcer Brad Sohner came in clutch, narrating the unfolding drama. The crowd erupted as Rhim emerged around the final corner, a solitary figure pushing against the odds to cross the finish line in a triumphant solo victory.

Not only did Brendan clinch a win in the final stage of Tucson Bicycle Classic 2024, but he was able to reclaim GC, which made for an electric and memorable finish to TBC 2024.

CreditTucson Bicycle Classic

Get a glimpse into the racing scene in the Tucson-area!

Check out this amazing story by Global Cycling Network about the Shootout rides held each week in our area.

The Vegan Cyclist Rides Marana

Watch this 6-part series as Tyler Pearce, also known as the Vegan Cyclist, explores the Marana, Arizona area for three days. Tyler also rode in the Tucson Bicycle Classic.

Tyler takes on the Loop, Mount Lemmon, the Marana Time Trial and more!

This itinerary/blog post showcases local businesses in our community. We feature partners that serve food and drink, offer recreational opportunities, places to stay, and shopping. We value accuracy, fairness and balance in our advertising and marketing. We would love to showcase your business to our visitors. These advertising and marketing opportunities (social media, articles, website, and ads) are open to all businesses within Marana and the designated two-mile “Pima County Tourism Partner Zone” around the town limits that meet this criteria. If you want to be featured on our website or in social media, please contact us at MaranaInfo@Maranaaz.gov.

Stefanie Boe

Author

Stefanie Boe

Tourism and Marketing Manager, Discover Marana/Town of Marana

Stefanie Boe is not just the Tourism and Marketing Manager for Discover Marana, she is also a passionate storyteller and a proud resident of the town. She has deep roots in the Marana area, going back to the 1970s when her family moved here from Chicago. She loves to share the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Marana with visitors and locals alike.
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