USA Cycling has hired Olympic silver medalist and world champion Mari Holden as its new women's road coach to oversee the development of the next generation of USA women cyclists.

Holden will oversee USA Cycling's women's road cycling program, from developmental athletes to the USA Cycling National Team.

"Mari's experience as an elite athlete and team director will allow USA Cycling to build a new support structure for the next generation of great American cyclists." Mari's appointment underscores her commitment to excellence and results, with a focus on the women's program for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and beyond."

Holden's own racing career includes a silver medal in the time trial at the 2000 Olympics, a time trial win at the 2000 World Championships, and six U.S. Championships. she began her professional career with Acqua Due o Lorena Camiche in 1999, and has been a member of the team since 2006, From 2003 to 2006 he moved to Timex, Alpha Ram, Cannondale, and T-Mobile.

As team director for Nicola Cranmer's Twenty16 and Twenty20 teams, Holden coached several world champions and Olympians, including Chloe Dygert and Jennifer Valente.

"As someone who has worn the U.S. national team kit and spent years developing the U.S. Olympic hopefuls, I am honored to be a part of supporting the team," Holden said.

"My years with Sho-Air Twenty20 have fulfilled my desire to be more active in the sport I love. I look forward to working with these talented women and helping them grow into champions."

"I am excited to be a part of the Sho-Air Twenty20 team.