January 24, 2012 – U.S.-based Team Optum presented by Kelly Benefit Strategies is launching a new pro women’s road team this season in conjuction with its top level men’s squad. The roster of strong women riders includes five Canadians – Lex Albrecht, Leah Kirchman, Joelle Numainville, Denise Ramsden, and Annie Ewart.

The team’s General Manager is a Canuck as well, Jacob Erker, of Symmetrics fame. The official women’s team presentation will be held in Minneapolis, MN, on January 28, with both the men’s and women’s squad’s presented on January 30.

The new title sponsorship from Optum has allowed Kelly Benefit Strategies to become the presenting sponsor and the creation of a top level women’s team, with the aim of increasing both sponsors presence in cycling, but also to reach more Americans who love the sport and want to live more actively and educate themselves about healthy lifestyles. The new crew is one of the top three professional women’s teams in North America.

Team Optum p/b Kelly Benefit Strategies Women’s Team Roster:

– Lex Albrecht
– Leah Kirchman
– Kristen Sanders
– Joelle Numainville
– Janel Holcomb
– Jade Wilcoxson
– Emma Grant
– Denise Ramsden
– Courteney Lowe
– Carmen Small
– Annie Ewart
– Anna Barensfeld