November 07, 2013 (Minneapolis, MN) – The American Optum Pro Cycling presented by Kelly Benefit Strategies squad has released its 2014 men’s and women’s road rosters that include strong Canadian representation once again.
On the men’s side, a winning combo is highlighted by speedy Canuck Ryan Anderson and new team member Will Routley, who returns to the North American scene after spending last season in Europe racing for the Accent Jobs-Wanty team. They are joined by returning riders Alex Candelario, Mike Friedman, Jesse Anthony, Tom Soladay, Scott Zwizanski, Tom Zirbel, Eric Young, Bjorn Selander, and Jeremy Durrin. Notable Canadian absences include Marsh Cooper, who retired, and Sebastian Salas. Brad Huff and Carter Jones will also join the team for 2014.
The women’s roster will see a new Canadian face at the helm, with Kevin Field taking over managerial duties. Field formerly managed the Canadian Symmetric squad and assisted in directing Team Spidertech. “I’m really excited as this is the first time I’ve managed a women’s team so it a new challenge for me,” Field told Pedal. “I’d chatted with team director Jonas Carney about the possibility some time ago but things really came together in the last week so I’ve got to get up to speed with all of the girls. We’ve got a great group of riders including strong Canadians as well and I’m looking forward to the opportunity.”
A phalanx of powerful Canucks complement the roster, including Canadian ITT and Road Champ Joelle Numainville, Canadian Crit Champ Leah Kirchmann, Denise Ramsden, and Annie Ewart. They are joined by fellow returning riders Jade Wilcoxson, Brianna Walle, Lauren Hall, Janel Holcomb, and Courteney Lowe, along with new riders Maura Kinsella and Amber Pierce.
2014 Roster
Men: Ryan Anderson, Jesse Anthony, Alex Candelario, Jeremy Durrin, Mike Friedman, Bjorn Selander, Tom Soladay, Tom Zirbel, Scott Zwizanski, Eric Young, Brad Huff, Carter Jones, Will Routley.
Women: Annie Ewart, Leah Kirchmann, Courteney Lowe, Lauren Hall, Janel Holcomb, Joelle Numainville, Denise Ramsden, Brianna Walle, Jade Wilcoxson, Maura Kinsella, Amber Pierce.