Columbia go with SCOTT

After a long relationship with Spanish Saunier Duval squad, now defunct after the drug scandals associated with lead rider Riccardo Ricco, and a brief liason with Scott/American Beef, SCOTT will now supply Team Columbia in 2009.

Scott have announced that it will become the new equipment sponsor to Team Columbia, which includes top professionals Kim Kirchen, George Hincapie and sprinter Mark Cavendish.

Pascal Ducrot, VP of Scott Sports said - “This was a very important decision for SCOTT and we are proud to join forces with a successful team like Columbia. The fact that the team is U.S.- and European-based and includes top level riders from 17 countries around the globe fits our distribution and marketing strategy perfectly. The team works closely with technical sponsors and this allows us to bring new and innovative products not only to athletes but also to consumers. The chemistry between SCOTT and team manager Bob Stapleton was there from the beginning and we are confident that this step will be beneficial for both of us.”
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Team Columbia Owner Bob Stapleton - said “We are excited about our new partnership with SCOTT. “We share the same goals in providing our athletes with the best tools and technology available. We are committed to working closely with SCOTT to develop outstanding products for professional athletes and enthusiasts.”

Previous bike supplier Giant will be equipping Rabobank from 2009.

Website - http://scottusa.com