Twenty-two-year-old Cassidy resident Steve Smith has been named to the 2012 Devinci Global Racing UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) World Cup roster.
The 2012 season kicked off this week in Pietermaritztburg, South Africa, home of the 2013 World Championships. DGR’s event focus includes the UCI World Cup, Crankworx Whistler, and other select European and North American events.
“I’m excited to be working with Devinci again in 2012, and I’m looking forward to building on last season’s momentum. Devinci has stepped things up, growing the program and adding great riders. It should be an amazing year,” said Smith.
In 2011, Smith showed his World Cup dominance, never finishing outside the top 10. In addition, he captured multiple World Cup podiums, a Canadian Open gold medal, and the US Open silver medal.
“It will be very interesting to follow Steve through the season. Steve is amazingly talented and has huge motivation, which will lead to great things,” said Felix Gauthier, president, Cycles Devinci.
The DGR squad features a mix of podium chargers and young standouts; paired with experienced management and top mechanical support.
Joining Smith is five-time Swiss National Champion, Nick Beer, 25, and New Zealand’s George Brannigan. Rounding out the program is first-year junior Gianluca Vernassa of Italy.
“We’ve assembled a standout lineup under the DGR banner — riders, co-sponsors, support staff,” says Gabe Fox, Devinci MTB Marketing Manager. “It’s a foundation for success and I envision seeing our program posting outstanding results this year.”
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