PROMAN Racing, in its third year, is pleased to announce a partnership with Swiss bicycle manufacturer BMC. The team does not operate under a large corporate umbrella but by generous donations from product sponsors, small businesses, family friends, Marin County BMC dealer Paradigm Cycles and even fellow racers; it is truly a community effort. To receive support from an industry giant such as BMC is a tremendous boost."The PROMAN Women's Team is a fantastic and unique program that BMC is proud to support," said Scott Thomson, General Manager of BMC North America. "Their grass-roots approach brings together a potent blend of elite and developing athletes. They ticked all the right boxes in building this program, so there was no question about BMC getting involved. We are excited to support these outstanding athletes with the best technology. It has been an exciting season thus far, and we're looking forward to having them race in our back yard at the Nature Valley Grand Prix."
With a stellar roster for the upcoming Liberty Classic, PROMAN Racing is ready for the challenges of Manayunk and Lemon Hill.
"PROMAN has a great roster and I think they are ready to have a great showing at the upcoming Liberty Classic! This team could be the underdog team gone wild. Look for a rider like Shelley Olds (above) to be on the podium." Said Robin Zellner, technical director for the race, “ I have watched this team develop at a steady pace over the last few years, there is a lot of depth and dedication, they are here to stay”.
Following Liberty Classic the team returns to Minnesota for its second shot at the Nature Valley Grand Prix. The team claimed podium spots and a 6th place GC last year. “ In 2007 we were a young green team, with a stronger roster this time around and lots of racing under our belt we could spring some surprises” commented Olds.
Nature Valley GP is the accomplishment of David La Porte and his tireless team. “ Its not just a race it is spectacular entertainment.” Phenomenal crowds and great support for the women’s event draws top caliber female racers from around the world.
Joining the team for these races is former U.S Postal rider Frankie Andreu who will be taking the directors seat. Although very familiar with the pro men’s peloton he is keen to experience women’s racing.
“American women currently are a dominating force in the world of cycling. I believe PROMAN Racing has the right structure and roster to help continue that development.” Said Frankie. “I look forward to making a winning formula with the PROMAN's Women's Cycling Team at the Liberty Classic and Nature Valley GP. They have a great roster for these events, and as they continue to gain experience, they will gain on the world's elite. I'm sure I will learn from the team a side of cycling I don't know much about. In return, I hope to give them the knowledge I have gained during my years racing as a professional.”Why Andreu some may ask? ”Well,” said manager Nicola Cranmer, “apart from his vast experience as a professional racer, the media love Frankie, any way I can draw attention to women’s cycling is a good thing. For our team it’s not just about getting on the podium it’s also necessary to apply energy to the broader vision of women’s racing which is struggling.”
Roster for Liberty Classic and Nature Valley GP
Shelley Olds USA
Rachel Lloyd USA
Betina Hold CAN
Megan Guarnier USA
Melodie Metzger USA
Virginia Perkins USA
Kristin Drumm USA
Helene Drumm USA
Nicola Cranmer Founder/Manager
Frankie Andreu, Director Sportif
Tim Brennan, Team Mechanic
Photos: Rob Evans - 2008 PROMAN team (top) and Shelley Olds, 2nd place overall Tulsa Tough NRC (middle); Paul Doran - Virgina Perkins (bottom).
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