December 08, 2014 (Woodbridge, ON) – Rise Racing, a new Canadian women’s race team with a roster of seven talented riders, held their launch on December 4 in Woodbridge, ON, at the home of principle sponsor, Cyclepath Woodbridge. An estimated 60 enthusiastic supporters were in attendance to help launch the new squad and hear from the store owners, Angie and Sam Cascun, themselves about their passion and reasons for getting behind the team.

The sponsors are taking a bold step in supporting a women’s team and are to be applauded for their initiative as women’s racing doesn’t get the same support as men, right up to the elite ranks.

One key team member is Ashley Barson, who’s been both a customer (she bought her first bike at Cyclepath Woodbridge) and is an employee there. While limited in scope by a first-year budget, the select core group of racers bring lots of experience with them.

Veteran Julia Bradley brings deep track skills to the team while Jamie Gilgen has been a dominant force in the local elite women’s road race scene (and beyond). Newcomer Genevieve Krahn will be a talent to watch for as well – Barson describes her as a “TT machine”. Alext Morley, Stephanie Skoreyko and Nicole Mitchell will add the extra fireworks.

Barson described the relationship with Cyclepath Woodbridge this way: “They have supported me from day one. It’s the store where I purchased my first bike and many since.” Angie Cascun’s comments regarding Barson make it clear they view her as part of the family and that shouldn’t come as a surprise in the tight knit community.

They’re bringing together a small team and looking forward to seeing what results these talented racers are able to pull together in the 2015 season. Future plans may see the inclusion of younger women who show promise in U23 events in a potentially expanded roster – part of the idea is to help fund the future. Recognizing future talent is very much a part of the vision and so is inclusiveness.

One aspect of the evening speaks of community… while the raffle brought in over $1,000 dollars of support, there was also a 50/50 draw which saw winner Matt Kerr donate his portion back to the team. Barson also made a point of thanking Davide Frattini of UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling Team for taking to time to attend the launch.

“He had a early morning flight to catch to team training camp, but that didn’t stop him from coming and showing his support for Rise Racing. He is a great down to earth person and wealth of knowledge. He took the time to chat with several people throughout the evening sharing stories and experience.”

Barson summed up the evening by saying, “Thursday’s launch party only solidified all the hard work we’ve put in to get this rolling, and gives us that extra boost to keep driving forward with our vision.” This will definitely be a team to watch… on the track, at cyclo-cross and most importantly at the road races. Bring on 2015!