Team Type 1 signs two

American squad Team Type 1 has announced two signings for 2009, including the re-signing of Ukrainian Valeriy Kobzarenko. The former Ukrainian champion played a crucial role in the squad throughout 2008, helping the team's leaders setup several victories in addition to several podium finishes of his own.

"I honestly believe we would not have had the success that we enjoyed in 2008 without his undying, consistent, and selfless work and commitment," TT1 sport director Ed Beamon said. "In every situation that I can remember this year where our leader may have been under fire, Kobza was always there to put out the flame. Valeriy can win when in the situation, but his experience and competitiveness make him one of the hardest workers on the team."

The outfit has also signed 23 year-old Ino Ilesic, a Slovenian rider who finished the 2008 season in strong form. Ilesic won the Dylan Mitchell Memorial Criterium and Vista Grand Prix races and finished third at the USA Crits Finals.

"He has extensive European experience coming from one of the top programs in central Europe," Beamon said. "This was another move to improve our strength in the sprints and at the finish, especially in the harder internationally competitive finishes."

Beamon believes IIlesic's finishing speed will be showcased in hard, one-day events and stages, as well as criteriums.