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Red Thread is Stronger than Ever

Oct 20, 2009
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<p>Specialized Bicycle Components is excited to announce the matriculation of one of their developmental athletes from the California Giant Berry Farms/Specialized team to the World ProTour with Team Astana. Evan Huffman, the reigning U23 National Time Trial Champion and the 2008 Junior National Road Champion, has raced for California Giant Berry Farms/Specialized for the last two years and is the second rider from the team to graduate to the world ranks in under twelve months. </p><p>
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Huffman’s move is significant in that it’s exemplary of Specialized’s Red Thread philosophy. This approach of identifying talented young riders and developing them through their career within a family of professional cycling teams is unique to Specialized and Huffman is the most recent proof of its success. </p><p>
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Huffman recently announced his transition and his Astana contract via twitter (@evanhuffman), “It’s true, I have signed for 2 years with @AstanaTeam… I’m very happy to be part of such a great team and have to especially thank @iamspecialized for their continued support.”</p><p>
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Specialized’s investment in youth cycling begins with its junior team, the nonprofit Whole Athlete/Specialized, but California Giant Berry Farms/Specialized is truly the springboard for gifted cyclists onto the world stage. </p><p>
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“What makes the California Giant Berry Farms/Specialized team so successful is its commitment to winning with young athletes. Their 2013 roster is its youngest ever and, combined with the guidance of the team’s experienced mentors, we’re really excited about their upcoming season,” according to Mallory Burda, USA Sports Marketing, Specialized Bicycle Components.</p><p>
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Notable among that youthful roster is Yannick Eckmann. Eckmann is the current U23 point leader in the US Grand Prix of Cyclocross and has recently gained US citizenship. Though it’s still unclear whether Eckmann would represent the Red White and Blue or his native Germany in the Cyclocross World Championships, he has emerged as a legitimate contender for the win this coming February nonetheless.</p><p>
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“Support of Yannick and young riders like him is definitely what the Red Thread is all about. But while identifying outstanding young talent like his is the ultimate goal, everyone wins when we continue to invest in the future of our sport,” Burda added.</p>

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