Kenda team set for 2009

Kenda USA renewed its title sponsorship of the US-based mountain bike team for what will be its third year in 2009. The team will consist of a mix of returning athletes such as Zephanie Blasi, Wendy Caldwell, Amanda Carey, Heather Holmes, Danielle Musto and Andy Schultz and two new recruits, Kathy Sherwin and Colin Cares. Kenda USA will focus on endurance and ultra-endurance racing.

"This diverse group gives us the flexibility to compete in a broad range of events from the US Cup and the NUE Series to single-day epics like Leadville 100 and stage races like the American Mountain Bike Classic," said team director David Myers. Several members of the team also plan on competing at the two World Cup races in Canada, and the team will also make an appearance at the Kenda Fest in Hancock, Massachusetts.

Kenda USA took over sponsorship of the team from Ford Motor Company in 2007 and looks at its role as important for the continued success of the sport in North America.

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Jim Wannamaker, Kenda USA North American Marketing Director - Bicycle Division says that continued sponsorship for the team is not only important for Kenda, but also for the continued success of the sport in North America. "Despite the economic downturn, we made a conscious decision to support our flagship team of athletes who are as committed to the sport as we are," said Jim Wannamaker, USA North American Marketing Director.

Racers will compete on Tomac Type-X carbon hard tails or Carbide full suspension bikes.

In addition to team sponsorship, Kenda will play a major role in American races next year with the title sponsorship of the US Cup Series announced a few weeks ago.

2009 Kenda USA Team
Elite women: Zephanie Blasi, Amanda Carey, Heather Holmes, Danielle Musto, Kathy Sherwin
Elite men: Andy Schultz, Colin Cares (U23)
Management: David Myers (Director), Ted Bentley (Mechanic and Event Manager), Wendy Caldwell (Community Programs)