January 09, 2013 – Team H&R BLOCK is pleased to announce its roster for the 2013 season as it continues as one of Canada’s premier cycling development teams. 2013 will see the return of a strong core group of riders, along with many new additions to the squad to build on the most successful year to date with wins coming at events across Canada and the United States. The program looks for riders who demonstrate ability in leadership, team play, honesty, loyalty, a strong work ethic and the talent to win races.

Elite Team:

– Aaron Schooler – Alberta based, strong bike handling skills demonstrated by winning back to back years at the Banff Bike Fest Criterium, one of Canada’s best Cyclocross riders with multiple National CX podiums. Aaron holds a diploma in Mechanical Engineering Technology.

– Kris Dahl – U23 Alberta based rider and Mechanical Engineering student. Kris has the maturity and talent to take his cycling to the next level and was one of the most active sprinters in the pack during several top Pro events.

– Justin Kerr – New Zealander who holds a Masters in Geology, raced in Europe, won races at BC Superweek, tandem pilot for a countryman on the NZ National Team. Justin continues his leadership role and mentoring young riders.

– Garrett McLeod – Nova Scotia rider, just completed his degree in Environmental Engineering. A former U23 National Criterium Champion, Garrett will be racing full time this season and will be a strong contender for GC at tours.

– Federico Marchiori – new addition U23 Italian rider who has had great success at 2012 BC Superweek events and is a strong all round road rider.

– Dave Stephens – new addition TT and GC rider, former U23 Rowing World Champion, relatively new to cycling with great results in 2012. Dave will use his strength and maturity to lead the team in time trials and as a tour leader.

– Kyle Buckosky – new addition U23 rider with strong TT skills, will continue to grow in the sport and further develop his abilities to build on his success.

– Ryan MacDonald – U23 rider, past U19 National Road Champion, exciting addition to the program and returning to fulltime riding to further develop his talent.

– Ben Wortelboer – new addition NZL native, U23 rider, excels in climbing, looking forward to test his skills in North America as a former U19 NZL National Team rider.

– Eric Johnstone – U19 rider, next generation for the elite program, joining the team on select projects to make a smooth transition into the elite program in future years.

The program continues to be supported by its’ Board of Directors Todd McCallum, Gary Clarke, Paul Blanchette and Carl Jacobson. Mark Ernsting continues on as the Team Director and member of the Board of Directors.

Team H&R BLOCK will once again continue to be a part of Cycling Canada’s Trade Team program. It is important for the Team to abide by the rules and regulations, as well as support the national cycling association’s mandates.

Team H&R BLOCK would like to thank their marketing partners for their continued support: without the help and direct involvement of such sponsors this program could not exist and perform at the level that it does:

H&R BLOCK – Norco Bicycles – Scotiabank – Direct Cash Income Fund – Stikeman Elliott LLP – Student Price Card – BGI Graphics – Curious Communications – Giordana – Full Speed Ahead – Mavic -Rudy Project – Sidi – Hammer Nutrition – Axiom – Yakima Racks – John Henry Bikes.

If any company or individual would like to become involved and support the growth of this program and these talented young athletes, please contact Mark at ernsting@m1sportsmanagement.com

For more information about Team H&R BLOCK visit the Team’s website or follow them on Twitter.