Parra heads home to Colombia es Passion

Former Cofidis rider Ivan Parra will join Colombian Continental squad Colombia es Passion next season, according to Sporza. The 32 year-old had ridden for Cofidis for the past two seasons, but enjoyed his best days in 2005 at Colombia - Selle Italia, winning back-to-back stages at the Giro d'Italia as well as the Colombian time trial championship. He also finished 13th in this year's Giro and placed third on Stage 15.

The younger brother of Fabio Parra - the only Colombian ever to finish on the Tour de France podium - Ivan began his professional career at Vitalicio Seguros in 1999, then rode for ONCE from 2001-2002, Kelme in 2003 and Cafe Basque in 2004.

Besides the experienced Parra, Colombia es Passion has registered the following riders for 2008: Alexis Castro, Freddy Gonzalez, Edwin Parra, Juan P. Forero, Robinson Chalapud Rafael Montiel, Wilson Marentes, Camilo Suarez, Fabio Duarte, Elver Corridor, Jarlinson Swamp, Jeffry Romero, William Rodriguez, Juan E. Arango and Sergio Luis Henao.

The team will be directed by Luis Fernando Saldarriga.

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