French bike manufacturer Lapierre has created a new mountain biking team comprising downhill and cross country riders.
Team Lapierre International's downhillers will be led by 21-year-old New Zealander Sam Blenkinsop, who will be riding with French veteran Nicolas Vouilloz and young Briton Sam Flockhart.
“I’m excited to ride for Lapierre next season,” says Blenkinsop. “It’s going to be great to ride alongside 10-time world champion Nico Vouilloz - someone I really respect.”
The cross country team will be made up of three French riders: Alexis Vuillermoz, Cécile Ravanel and Cédric Ravanel.
“At Lapierre, we’ve always been passionate about racing, and we’ve actively sponsored riders at all levels since the late 80s,” said managing director Gilles Lapierre.
“We’ve had the opportunity to work with some excellent athletes in the past, and for 2010 we’re excited to offer a professional structure and healthy race environment to some new riders.”
