event -- the Conyers Dill and Pearman Grand Prix and Classic over four days.

The event has quickly established itself as a well-known event, not just locally but also on the international cycling calendar. Response this year from top professional cyclists has been overwhelming, prompting the Bermuda Bicycle Association to act quickly to find team sponsorship and accommodation for 200 competitors -- the largest number of professional cyclists to assemble here.

Race Director Kip Herring commented: "Year by year the Conyers Dill and Pearman Grand Prix is gaining in prestige and this is in no small part to the excellent courses that Bermuda is able to provide.'' The calibre of the teams is certainly outstanding, with many in their country's top 10, such as top US team, Mercury, well known Saturn, Navigators, Shaklee and US Postal -- now a household name after team member Lance Armstrong shot to fame this year by winning the Tour de France against incredible odds.

Bermuda's cyclists will have the opportunity to compete alongside leading names such as Bermudian professional Elliot Hubbard of Navigators, Pan Am gold medallists Eric Wohlberg of Shaklee, Brian Walton of Saturn, US Postal's George Hincapie and Christian Vanderveld, in a quest for the $12,000 prize money in the four stage event.

The event includes a Thursday evening (September 23) Classic on Front Street, a 9.3 mile time trial on Friday, followed by a 75-mile road race on the Saturday -- and the finale, a 90-minute criterium around the streets of Hamilton on the Sunday.

The top US junior cycling team, Red Rose Rocket, will also compete as will leading professional female teams, Timex, Saturn, the Canadian national team and Team Ultimate Edge.

The Front Street Supermart is sponsoring the Linda McCartney team from England as will British Airways its own two BA teams. Island Satellite, together with Winners Edge, are sponsoring the US Postal team and Fidelity Investments the well-respected Shaklee team.

Two independent U.S. riders, Jake Hemboldt and Emily Wilson are copeting courtesy of Lifestyle Management and Conyers Dill and Pearman are sponsors of the Navigators team. Spa Water have agreed to provide the water for the cycists.

The quality of the field will be of tremendous benefit for Bermuda as it raises the profile of the event, both here and abroad, showcasing Bermuda to both fans and journalists. Bermudians will have the opportunity to witness the excitement of cycling at its highest level and be able to mingle with some of the top names in the sport.