Foes signs new talent

After spending two years without major sponsorship backing, two-time world's silver medallist Fionn Griffths has signed a deal to ride for the Foes-Azonic team in 2003. The young British downhiller, who doesn't turn 21 until August, joins 2000 junior world downhill champion Julien Poomans on what is looking to be a formidable line-up for the California-based bike maker.The team's profile could rise even higher if it can iron out some final details with 1994 world downhill champion Missy Giove. According to Foes general manager Rich Cleveland, negotiations are still ongoing but at the very least Giove "will be riding a Foes bike this year."

If Giove does sign on with Foes, it would be her second stint with the team. Following her days with Volvo-Cannondale, the New York native spent the 2000 season riding for Foes. The last two years Giove rode for Global Racing, but was forced to look for another team when Global's primary sponsor pulled out last fall.

Giove's continued presence on the racing circuit would come as a surprise to some, who thought that the oft-injured rider might finally have decided to hang up her race bike.

"She wants to give it one more shot," said Cleveland.

Griffiths, meanwhile, rode for little known Ancilloti the last two years. But the backing was minimal, leaving her to occasionally bum rides to events and rely on her parents for extra support.

The rest of the Foes line-up will include junior expert rider Cory Gustafson, and free riders Chris Baughman and Greg Smith.

News source: www.velonews.com
Foes Web Site: www.FoesRacing.com