Lucinda Cherbaka Will Compete at 2026 UCI World Series
The 17-year-old Blacksburg cyclist will represent Team USA at the event in Lake Placid this weekend.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Cycling
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Blacksburg native Lucinda Cherbaka is set to compete for Team USA at the 2026 UCI Mountain Bike World Series. The event takes place in Lake Placid this October 2026.
Why it matters
Cherbaka's selection highlights her rapid rise as a competitive mountain biker following a strong performance in the regional downhill circuit. Her participation represents a significant milestone for local athletes supported by the New River Valley cycling community.
Cherbaka secured a 4th place overall ranking in the Pro-Women category of the Downhill Southeast Series. Her season highlights include a 1st place finish at Massanutten and 2nd at the Solitude Mountain Pro Downhill Series.
The players
Lucinda Cherbaka
A 17-year-old cyclist from Blacksburg who is rising through the professional downhill mountain biking ranks.
Roanoke Star Cycling Gravity Team
An organization based in Roanoke that provides training and competitive support for regional mountain bike athletes.
The details
Cherbaka developed her skills through the Roanoke Star Cycling Gravity Team and the New River Valley Cycling Alliance. Her competitive path included top-five finishes at various national venues, including Snowshoe, Beech Mountain, and the Trials Training Center.
Timeline
Lucinda Cherbaka joined the Roanoke Star Cycling Gravity Team in 2025.
Cherbaka represents Team USA at the UCI Mountain Bike World Series in October 2026.
Season Trajectory
This selection accelerates Cherbaka's professional career path within the global cycling circuit. Her performance will influence her future ranking and potential recruitment opportunities within the competitive international downhill scene.
Cherbaka's qualification validates the training infrastructure provided by the New River Valley Cycling Alliance. Her upcoming race in Lake Placid serves as the final test of her professional transition from the regional Pro-Women circuit.
The takeaway
Cherbaka serves as an example of how consistent performance in regional series leads to national team opportunities. Young athletes should focus on gaining diverse racing experience across different terrain types to build a competitive resume.
Further reading
For more information on the local scene, visit Cycling.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WSET.
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