Stander sticks with Mr. Price

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Although Burry Stander has signed with one of the world's most well-known teams, Specialized, he has retained his long-time sponsor Mr. Price, whose logo will continue to appear on Stander's kit when he races in his home country of South Africa. Mr Price, a South African clothing, sport and home retail store giant, extended its support of Stander.

"My relationship with Mr Price goes back to 2000. They have been a consistent sponsor of mountain biking in South Africa for a long time; since before the sport became so popular," said Stander.

Stander had a phenomenal 2008, his second year in the Under 23 division, where his highlights included winning the South African Championships (for a sixth time), capturing the silver medal at the Under23 World Championships, finishing 15th at the Olympic Games and winning the Under 23 World Cup title.

"Mr Price has been very loyal to me over the years and I believe it's important to honour that loyalty with loyalty. Fortunately Specialized was very understanding and agreed to allow me to race in co-branded kit when I'm in South Africa," said Stander.

The 21-year-old will compete in cross country, marathon and stage races in South Africa and the rest of the world. He will partner with current World Champion and Specialized teammate, Christoph Sauser, in the upcoming Cape Epic, where they are among the favourites to win.

Stander is also mentoring a trio of talented young South Africans on the new Mr Price Scott team which comprises current national junior men's cross-country and marathon champion, Rourke Croeser, current national youth men's cross-country champion, Arno du Toit and top junior woman Caitlin de Wet.

"It's a small, focused team with loads of talent which I will support and mentor. This is something I didn't have at that stage in my career, but which I believe is important to help them make the jump from young champions to elite champions," said Stander.