La Ruta winner gets nod for Beijing

Federico "Lico" Ramírez has earned the chance to represent Costa Rica in the Olympic Cross Country race in Beijing, China, in August. He was selected by the Technical Board of the Costa Rican Cycling Federation (FECOCI) for his achievements over the past year including winning the 2007 National XCO Cup, the 2007 XCO National Championship, placing fourth at the TransAlp race in Europe, placing second at the TransRockies in Canada and also for winning the overall at the 2007 La Ruta de los Conquistadores.

"I'm very happy about this opportunity. This is what every cyclist dreams about. I hope to do the best for my country and will now work thinking on that single goal," said the 31 year-old Costa Rican cyclist.

Lico's team-mate Henry Raabe was also chosen to represent Cost Rica, but on the road team, thanks to his two consecutive victories in La Vuelta a Costa Rica, the country's most important road race (ranked 2.1 on the UCI's American Tour).

Both racers will take part in the Sea Otter Classic next month. "We will support them to enter the Sea Otter Classic as a first stop on their long trip to Beijing," said La Ruta's Marketing Manager Luis Rueda. Ramírez and Raabe will also travel to Europe two months before the Olympics in order to complete their preparation. The Costa Rican Cycling Federation and the BCR-Pizza Hut Cycling Team will sponsor their journey to Europe.