CCA Announces UCI road teams for 2007

The Canadian Cycling Association (CCA) announced that five Canadian road cycling teams have sent a letter of intent to register with the UCI for the 2007 season. This more than doubles the number of UCI-registered teams from last year and indicates the growth in the popularity of road cycling in Canada. Building on this momentum, Canada will host two new UCI events in 2007: Tour of Prince Edward Island and Tour Montreal-Boston, bringing the total to six annual UCI road events, two for men and four for women.

Men's teams

Symmetrics - Under Kevin Cunningham, the squad will start its third campaign in the American Tour. The team finished sixth in the 2006 team rankings. Symmetrics will still be led by Svein Tuft, the defending time trial national champion. Zach Bell has joined the team for 2007. Symmetrics is expected to continue as one of the strongest teams in the Americas.

Calyon-Litespeed - Managed by Bernard Vives, the team will tackle the America Tour campaign for its second year. The team will build on its 2006 experience and hopes to continue developing its young riders. Roster changes will be minor.

Volkswagen-Trek - After many years at the provincial and national level, the team reaches a milestone by seeking its first continental license. Managed by Josée Robitaille, the team is renowned for developing young talent and will again tackle the America Tour for 2007.

Vallée de l’aluminium - The new team for 2007 will be backed by Québec’s popular aluminum producer Alcan. Roger Filion, a well-known race promoter and cyclist, put together the team, which will focus on development for its first year.

Women's team

Expresscopy.com – Biovail - Formerly known only as Biovail, Scott Gerrie's team will be built around a core group of national team riders with a calendar of events focusing on the World Cup. Expect to see the team in Europe, too.