2009 - Review Of The Season
As another season draws to a close the team
can reflect on the ups and downs of 2009. It has been another superb season for
the team and the individual riders with some fantastic new sponsors joining us on
our journey and some outstanding results.
The team started the season in Cyprus way back in February where our top Junior
(Ben Roff) took podium positions in all three stages of the Sunshine Cup stage race
finishing 2nd overall. We also saw the introduction of our top Elite, Chris Andrews.
From there the season has never really let up with racing right through to September
where the team finished on a high with our most improved rider ever, Nat Jarvis,
taking 3rd place and his first podium at National level.
Along the way the team has taken in the length and breadth of the country racing
week in and week out. Highlights included the sprint finish and 4th place at Dalby
Forest by our Youth sensation, Alex Baker, the 11th place by Chris at the National
Championships in Scotland and the 3rd place by Nat in the final National race of
the year.
However not all has been plain sailing and with injuries to Brodie and Paul struggling
for fitness and form along with a disastrous National Championships with both Ben
and Alex forced into retirement with technical problems and crashes it has been
a real test of character for a team that boasts some of the most exciting talent
in the country.
The team took on a new look for 2009, which saw a change in kit, personnel and sponsors
that has certainly made a huge difference and helped the team bring a new professional
image to its armoury. We would like to thank our outstanding sponsors Cannondale,
Heales Cycles, KCNC Components, Pyreneescycling.com, Bioracer Kit Torq Fitness,
Joolze Dymond Photography, Northwave Shoes, Schwalbe Tyres and Defeet socks without
who life would be a lot harder for us.
With the team looking to remain unchanged for 2010 and some exciting plans for 2011
it was with regret that Brodie left us due to his ongoing injuries and with Will
now slipping into a managerial role the team is taking shape for another big assault
on the world of Mountain Biking for 2010 and beyond.
As always race hard… have fun!
Norris Orange Monkey Executive Press Officer