Source: press release
Cannondale, a premium brand of Dorel Industries (TSX: DII.B, DII.A), and Cannondale Factory Racing are excited to announce the arrival of Canadian Max Plaxton, the fastest XC rider in North America, to the team as it heads into its 6th season. Plaxton joins elite riders Marco Aurelio Fontana, Manuel Fumic, Anton Cooper, and Keegan Swenson.
“I’m amped to be riding with a strong squad,” commented Plaxton. “I’m ready to bring my A-game to the 2014 season.”
After a year with Sho-Air Cannondale in North America, and proven World Cup results (three top ten placings including a fifth-place podium) supported by Cannondale Factory Racing, it was the next logical step to have Plaxton officially join the Cannondale Factory Racing Team. During 2014, Plaxton will continue to aim for consistent top ten finishes and world cup podiums.
Along with the addition of Plaxton to Cannondale Factory Racing, Sho-Air International joins as a new team sponsor after a successful year with the Sho-Air/Cannondale North American race program. Sho-Air International, a California-based tradeshow and event transportation company, has long wanted to partner with Cannondale Factory Racing. Cannondale Factory Racing is known for supporting and proactively advancing the sport of XC mountain biking – a sentiment shared by Sho-Air.
“We watched Max compete last year, and his results speak for themselves. We’re thrilled to add him to the team. We’re also excited to have Sho-Air expand a great North American relationship to an even broader global partnership. Our companies share a passion for cycling and a commitment to expanding the sport. This will be a great relationship,” said General Manager for Cannondale Bob Burbank.
The Cannondale Factory Racing team will focus not only on the XCO World Cup, but the riders will compete globally with major appearances especially in North America. They will start a great Olympic qualification period and are a strong contender for the UCI World Cup team ranking as well.
Riders will use the F29 and Scalpel for most races this season to showcase a team that competes at the highest level of XC mountain biking.
Cannondale Factory Racing is proudly supported by Sho-Air, SRAM, Avid, Rock Shox, Enve, FSA, Prologo, Schwalbe, DT Swiss, Northwave, Ethic Sport, Osprey, Eighty Aid+, RSP and Knaus.