Redlands Classic 4 / 5 Stage Wins

Redlands Classic, now in its 40th year, remains one of the most iconic races in the U.S. and this year delivered. We fielded a squad of eight, blending experience with developing talent. With several riders coming off a track focus, there were some unknowns, but the team exceeded expectations. Marj Rinaldo (USA), Kenna Pfeiffer (USA) Emmi Gilbert (USA) Ella Sabo (USA) Olivia Cummins (USA) Emily Ehrlich (USA) Sofia Arreola (MEX) and Rylee McMullen (AUS)

Across the week, we won 4 of 5 stages, secured the sprinter’s jersey, and finished 2nd overall on GC (by just 15 seconds). More importantly, it was a true team performance, where individual goals aligned with collective execution:

• Emily Ehrlich targeted the time trial, she delivered, winning by 36 seconds.
• Olivia Cummins set her sights on the sprinter’s jersey and, with full team support, achieved it.
• Ella Sabo, racing on home roads, aimed for two stage wins and took three, backed by committed teamwork.
  

There’s something powerful about athletes being willing to say their goals out loud. It creates accountability and requires the team to fully buy in and this group did exactly that.

It was also special to have Cathy and Alex Kim join us as guest directors. Different perspectives are invaluable in athlete development, and they added a lot to the week. “Cotton Sox Sports is proud to sponsor the Twenty28 team, and directing the team at the Redlands Cycling Classic was a great experience. The dedication and commitment of all eight riders and staff made the week incredibly rewarding,” said Catherine Fegan-Kim

Behind the scenes, our staff of Racer Gibson, Rafael Meran and Mike SanJose were outstanding, managing long days and the added complexity of building up our first batch of STROMM bikes right before the race. Thank you to Cid Breyer and Jess Sabo for hosting the team, you make it feel like a hometown race for all of us!