Gary Fisher signs Sam Schultz

The Subaru Gary Fisher mountain bike team announced the addition of the current under-23 national champion, Sam Schultz, for 2007. The soon-to-be 21-year-old intends to defend his U-23 title next year and will tackle a full slate of NORBA national series races and the occasional World Cup. He'll also race at the Pan Am championships in March in Venezuela.

Of the signing, Schultz, originally from Missoula, Montana, but now living in Colorado Springs, Colorado, told Cyclingnews, "I'm psyched about it! I think it's a huge step forward in my career. I'm thankful for what the national team program has done for me, and I wouldn't be where I am now without it."

Schultz reflected on this past year in. "Sea Otter was a good race for me; I got third in the time trial, against an international field. I had a pretty consistent season in the NORBAs, too, but that's what I want to work on for next year. I'd like to have more peaks to get better results. I'd also like to make the team for worlds and go and do well." Schultz finished tenth overall in the national cross country series and eighth overall in the short track series.

Schultz intends to continue a relationship with the national development squad although he will race in Gary Fisher colors.

Brand manager Travis Ott had words of praise for Schultz. "He brings youth and a good personality to the team. We're excited about his signing." Ott said the full Gary Fisher team roster will be announced before the end of the year.