SPECIALIZED ANNOUNCES IT TEAMJAN 24
SPECIALIZED ANNOUNCES IT TEAMJAN 24
Specialized has announced the competition schedule and team for 2002. The Morgan Hill-based bike brand, Specialized, will be downscaling their World Cup Pro team to help more mountain bikers.
Barbara Blatter, the UCI champion and top-ranked xc women in the world is staying on for the 02 WC Series. Most of Blatters’ racing will be in Europe. Her ultimate goal is to win a gold medal at 02 Worlds.
Specialized has decided to shift its focus to regional and local Grassroots Programs. Specialized Dealers are collaborating with Specialized to increase the visibility of MTB racing, foster more enthusiasm and encourage young talent. The number of Specialized Factory Teams members has increased by more than 30% since 2001.
Specialized supports grassroots racing and events. Specialized also sponsors Brett Tippie, a freeride talent who is the embodiment of Specialized BigHit Enduro and BigHit bikes.
Sinyard said that we considered a variety of options, including racing in Europe and a highly-publicized program in the States. We chose to support events such as the Sea Otter and take a grassroots approach to MTB racing for 02, and we have already started planning for 5,088cm
Ned Overend will continue as a racer/coach/product developer and coach. He will also be focusing on Real People events. I’m excited to tackle many events in 02! The X-Terra was a huge success and I look forward to regional classics such as the Fruta Festival as well as the Muddy Buddy Series, says the mountain biking legend.
