CAWES, Inc. (Capitol Area Women's Elite Squad) is a non-profit organization committed to promoting the participation of women in cycling both locally and nationally. CAWES, Inc. has partnered with local and national organizations to advance policy initiatives for a safer, greener, and healthier lifestyle through cycling and cycling-friendly laws. We have partnered with the Washington Area Bike Association (WABA), the Cycling Made Real Series, and the Mid-Atlantic Bike Association (MABRA) in an effort to accomplish the mission of our organization.

For 2010, Specialized Bicycle remains a co-title sponsor and CAWES powered by Specialized will be outfitted with Specialized bicycles, helmets, eyewear, and shoes. The team will race on the Amira - the newest addition to the Specialized Design for Women bike line. Returning sponsors include Teaism and CeraSport.  New sponsors for 2010 include Conte's Bicycle and Fitness, Maxxis, Rhodes Chiropractic, Sports & Spinal Physical Therapy, and MidMaryland Coaching. 

All our sponsors are committed to advancing the participation of women in cycling and each sponsor believes that women involved in sports will be empowered to succeed in life.  The 2008 and 2009 seasons (as Team CycleLife powered by Specialized) were successes by every measure with our members earning Senior and Cat 3 Bar Championships and the team being awarded the distinction of USA Cycling's Division III Club of the Year . 

Returning to race for CAWES powered by Specialized are Christina Briseno, Jennifer Cheng, Sonja Evers, Michelle Hart, and Robin Meidhof. Joining the team for 2010 are the Pennsylvania/New Jersey contingent of Sarah Iepson and Alaina Gurski. Iepson, a frequent guest rider for Salamander Racing in 2009 NRC races, joins the team from Sturdy Girl Cycling and Gurski, formally of Cadence Cycling was the PA State Bar Cat 3 Champion and PA State Time Trial Champion. CAWES powered by Specialized's 2010 race schedule will include MABRA, PA Bar, NRC, mountain bike, and cyclocross races.