BETHEL, CT -- (Marketwire) -- 01/13/13 -- Cannondale, a premium brand of Dorel Industries Inc. (TSX: DII.B) (TSX: DII.A), launched its 2013 pro cycling team, Cannondale Pro Cycling, this past weekend at Paramount Studios in Hollywood, CA. Team captains Ivan Basso, Peter Sagan, Elia Viviani, and Moreno Moser walked the Cannondale Pro Cycling carpet amidst the cheers and flashbulbs of global media and fans at the world-famous venue.
"The official launch of Cannondale Pro Cycling this past weekend was a celebration of our athletes and all things Cannondale," said Bob Burbank, Global General Manager, Cannondale. "There's no denying that we love to win, but it's not just about crossing the finish line first, but how you get there. Riders all over the world can be proud to be a part of the Cannondale Pro Cycling community."
Event attendees were given an exclusive sneak peek of what the upcoming 2013 season will bring and were first to see the new SUGOI kit and team Cannondale SuperSix EVO. Additionally, Peter Sagan was awarded the best finish for his "Forrest Gump" celebration at the 2012 Tour de France.
Following the team launch, guests had a unique Hollywood experience with a tour of the Paramount Studios sound stages. The night ended with a party on the Paramount Studios New York City set that included food and drink from the home countries of many of the team's riders and music spun by DJ Mick Boogie.
"The entire team is getting ready for great things from Cannondale Pro Cycling in the 2013 season," said Peter Sagan, Cannondale Pro Cycling athlete. "I feel strong enthusiasm from the team for a great year. Cycling is my passion and the opportunity to put on a show. I want to give our fans a strong performance on the saddle of my SuperSix EVO. I'm proud to be a part of Cannondale Pro Cycling."
The 2013 team presentation was part of a four-day team camp in Los Angeles, CA. The members of the Cannondale Pro Cycling team in attendance trained on the award-winning Super Six EVO on and around the local roads of Thousand Oaks and Malibu, preparing for the rapidly approaching start of the 2013 season. In addition to the SuperSix EVO, the team will be riding the Slice RS this season. Responding to feedback for a lighter frame without losing stiffness, Cannondale has created an aero bike with weight savings of approximately 1.4 kilos from last year's version. The Slice RS is now 300 grams lighter in just the frame, with additional weight savings from lighter components such as Vision wheels and aero handlebars.
Cannondale Pro Cycling has an impressive international roster and is set for success this upcoming season. With the combination of Ivan Basso, winner of the 2010 Giro d'Italia, alongside 22-year-old Peter Sagan, winner of the Green Jersey at the 2012 Tour de France, Cannondale Pro Cycling is made up of both new and seasoned riders. Elia Viviani and Moreno Moser remain integral parts of the team, along with American Ted King. The team will see a number of notable new riders as well, including Lucas Sebastian Haedo (AR), Cameron Wurf (AU), Matthias Krizek (AT), Guillaume Boivin (CA), Brian Vandborg (DK), Michel Koch (DE), Alessandro De Marchi (IT) and Nariyuki Masuda (JP).
"With the combination of the 'best bike in the world' and the incredible talent of the Cannondale Pro Cycling team, we're looking forward to an unforgettable 2013 season," said Burbank.
The Cannondale Pro Cycling season kicks off on January 20, 2013 at the Santos Tour Down Under.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Michael DeLeon
michael.deleon@cyclingsportsgroup.com
203.749.7000
