Kenda, Titus and Hayes support 2008 team

Zephanie Blasi (Kenda) racing in 2007 (Image credit: Dave McElwaine/trailwatch.net)

Kenda USA, Titus and Hayes Bicycle Group are sponsoring the pro mountain bike team of Quick Release Racing, Inc., based out of Ann Arbor, Michigan, for 2008. The team's roster reflects the broad range of endurance-discipline events. From cross-country racing to ultra-endurance events and festivals, team members will attend events such as the 24 Hours of Old Pueblo in Tucson, Arizona, the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey, California, the US National Mountain Bike Series (NMBS), La Ruta in Costa Rica, the US National Championships and the Kenda Bicycle Festival in Massachusetts.

In addition to competing, the female athletes will serve as ambassadors for women's cycling across the country. A focus on developing young athletes will continue with school and community programs aimed at getting more girls involved in sports and cycling by partnering with local advocacy and junior racing programs. The Joan C. Banfield Foundation of Dexter, Michigan will host the team for a number of clinics targeting health and wellness in the school system.