Some '04 Team News

I've been sitting on this long enough waiting for the "official" press releases, but I see others are spilling the beans, so to speak, so here goes. Kirt Vories, who recently tied the knot with NORBA's new marketing hottie, Lindsey Richter, has signed with the Santa Cruz factory team. I've no official word if either or both of the Houseman brothers will be returning just yet, but I do know the team will once again be run by Derin Stockton, and Stikman reported today that Nathan Rennie and Henry O'Donnell will join the team. Speaking of the newlywed Vories couple, word on the street is, they've been urging their good friend, and extreme athlete extraordinaire, Shawn Palmer to return to the racing ranks in an effort to boost the NORBA scene. There has been reports Palmer has been seen test riding some Turners, but if I were a betting man, I'd wager he'll be on an Intense if he does indeed return to the fray.

Anne-Caroline Chausson has re-signed with the Commencal/Oxbow team for the '04 season. From the sounds of it, she'll take the same direction as last year, hitting a few "freeride" and possibly World Cup events throughout Europe, while concentrating (yeah, like she has to) on the World Championships in France. Joining the 17 time world champion is Bernat Guardia, Romain Saladini, Franck Parolin and XC's little big man (turned road-star), Miguel Martinez. One other "freerider" will be named later this month. The DH team will be riding a new (though similar) Commencal DH design that consumers should be able to get their hands on next spring. Vince from Commencal was kind enough to send over these pics.


Finally, I've heard rumour that Pinkbike.com is finally stepping up in the racing game. The team is still working out details, but by all accounts, look for a huge presence at the Canada Cup, BC Cup and some select NORBA races near you.