An All-African Women’s Race Team to Compete, Further Expanding International Baltimore’s Reach
BALTIMORE, MD (July 29, 2025) — The 2025 Maryland Cycling Classic is gearing up to be one of the most exciting sports events in Baltimore’s recent history. Set for Saturday, September 6, 2025, the race will not only debut a brand-new 17.9-mile circuit entirely within Baltimore City but also mark the first time men’s and women’s professional races will be held on the same day — a momentous occasion— made even more significant by the participation of a groundbreaking all-women’s team from Africa.
Accompanied by his wife, First Lady Hana Scott, Mayor Brandon Scott announced the course at a press conference on Wednesday, July 23.
“We’re excited to welcome the Maryland Cycling Classic back to our city this September. This year’s event is going to be better than ever, not only because it features a new women’s race, but because the entire course is officially within Baltimore City limits. It’s a special opportunity for folks here in Charm City to see free, world-class racing—and folks all around the world to see our beautiful city. I hope to see everybody out there cheering this fall,” stated Mayor Scott.
Adding to the theme of diversity and inclusivity is the arrival of the all-women African team — a bold and inspiring milestone. The team, composed of elite riders from across the continent, embodies the spirit of unity, perseverance, and global sportsmanship.
Photo Credit: JJ McQueen
“This is a significant cultural and athletic moment. To host an all-women’s African cycling team on a course that is authentically Baltimore signals something far bigger than just a race. It’s a symbol of inclusion, global respect, and community celebration,” said Kireem Swinton, Interim President and CEO of Visit Baltimore.
Promoting Baltimore’s Beauty, Unity, and Community
Race Director Jim Birrell emphasized that the decision to move the race fully into the city was intentional. “Baltimore is a city of great neighborhoods. We wanted to highlight Baltimore’s famous and beautiful waterfront while telling the story of the city’s rich history. It’s blending the old and new of one of America’s most diverse cities.”
“It’s been a team effort working with the mayor’s office, Baltimore Police, and city departments to bring this course to life,” said Terry Haseltine, President of the Sport & Entertainment Corporation of Maryland. “We believe the new route and the addition of the women’s race — especially welcoming an all-women African team — will open up a whole new level of engagement and excitement.”
The inclusion of the African team also resonates deeply with Baltimore’s own global identity and cultural heritage. Their participation brings international attention and a sense of pride to communities across the city and beyond.
Race Highlights: From Cobblestones to Climbs
The race opens with a bang through the 550-yard granite cobblestones of historic Fells Point — a section known to fracture race fields early. Riders will pass through the neighborhoods of Canton and Mount Vernon, glide by the 1829 Washington Monument, and charge into Patterson Park, one of America’s oldest urban parks, before scaling the race’s most decisive point, the climb near St. Mary’s Seminary.
The final stretch down East Pratt Street—a fast, flat, 1,000-yard sprint —will bring the peloton back to the Harbor, where thousands of fans are expected to witness an electrifying finish.
Fan Engagement, Community Celebration, and People Power
The event organizers are focused not only on athletic excellence but also on community excitement. Several Fan Zones will be set up throughout the course — including Harbor Point, Thames Street, Patterson Park, Mount Vernon, and East Pratt — offering free cowbells, thunder sticks, and live big-screen coverage to pump up the crowd and support the athletes.
Another highlight of this year’s event will be an expanded outreach and community celebration presented by Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic. The “In the Community 2025” program will engage area schools, businesses, and civic associations to bring the fun and excitement to people and spaces commonly overlooked by events of this nature. This effort will enable opportunities for greater appreciation of the economic and social impact the race will have on Baltimore’s neighborhoods and the region by offering unique on-ramps for participation.
This year, as in 2023, the Maryland Cycling Classic will be supported by hundreds of volunteers. From corporate sponsors to community groups, from teens to older adults, people power will provide the energy that takes this event over the finish line. There are dozens of roles to be filled in a wide range of activities throughout race day and the weeks leading up to August 6, 2025. Volunteers are actively being recruited to lend a hand. For full event details, maps, course profiles, and schedule updates, and volunteer opportunities, visit MarylandCyclingClassic.us.