BENTONVILLE, Ark. — With less than 50 days until the Paris Olympics kick off, the U.S. mountain biking team from Bentonville has unveiled its roster for the upcoming Games. Christopher Blevins, Riley Amos, Haley Batten, and Savilla Blunk have been selected to represent Team USA, marking the first time the country has qualified the maximum number of athletes for this event.
“It’s a sense of expectation and competitiveness so intense, it’s that kind of tenacity that gets medals, and that’s exactly what they’re made of,” remarked Brendan Quick, President and CEO of U.S. Cycling.
The athletes are poised to compete in terrain that mirrors the challenging sawtooth landscapes found in Bentonville, known for its rapid ascents and descents.
“I look at mountain biking as being an American sport as well, and I am excited to watch these athletes take a big step forward in helping us get towards that level of dominance,” Quick added.
Since becoming the home of the U.S. National Mountain Biking Team in 2023, Bentonville has played a pivotal role in fostering grassroots cycling nationwide while aiming for Olympic glory.
“I’m really excited about what’s going to happen in Paris. Really, really excited to see what’s going to happen in L.A.,” Quick said. “A home [Olympic] Games in 2028 is so meaningful, and I just think we’re about to have a decade, multi-decade long run for the United States, both on the men’s side and the women’s side of this, the dominant nation in global mountain bike racing.
The women’s competition is scheduled to commence on July 28, followed by the men’s event on July 29. Fans in Bentonville will have the opportunity to gather at local watch parties hosted by Team USA to cheer on their athletes.