The Felt Ötztal X-Bionic World Cup team added two more riders: Carolin Schiff and Vladi Riha. Unlike their cross country teammates, Schiff and Riha prefer to race marathons.
Schiff, a qualified nurse, focuses on her studies when not riding while Riha, who started cycling in 2002, makes his living as a pro cyclist. Both came from road cycling, and Schiff has previously competed in swimming, running and triathlons.
Riha is looking forward to the new challenge. "I hope I can integrate with the team as quickly as possible and have an even better season than last year. My ultimate goal is the European Marathon Championship, and I also hope to win one or two marathons in 2010."
Schiff is also aiming high for 2010. "On the new team, I hope to progress fast, especially concerning my mountain bike skills."
The Felt Ötztal X-Bionic World Cup team now humbers eight athletes: Simon Scheiber, Karl Markt, Manne Reis, Vladi Riha, Sabrina Enaux, Adelheid Morath, Blaza Klemencic and Carolin Schiff.