Five of the world’s top 15 international cycling teams have committed to the 2012 Tour of Utah.
Utah’s event is set for Aug. 7-12 and is the first major weeklong stage race following the Tour de France and London Olympics.
Tour of Utah officials said Tuesday that Liquigas-Cannondale, RadioShack-Nissan-Trek, BMC Racing Team, Rabobank Cycling Team and Garmin-Barracuda have confirmed participation. Three other pro continental teams also have confirmed, with the full field of 16 teams to be set in May.
Liquigas-Cannondale is ranked No. 3 in the world.
Levi Leipheimer successfully defended his Tour of Utah title last year.
The Tour of Utah was elevated in 2011 to a 2.1-rated stage race by the sport’s governing body. It is one of four such rated in North America this year.
Ron Callahan is the chief cook and bottlewasher at Bike World News, doing everything from website design to bike reviews.
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