The OUCH Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis heads to Silver City, New Mexico Wednesday with a strong, deep stage-racing roster to contest the SRAM Tour of the Gila, April 29 – May 3. The squad is headlined by 2007 and 2008 NRC points champion Rory Sutherland and stage race specialist Floyd Landis.
“With a couple stage races going away this year, every one on the calendar becomes more important,” said OUCH Presented by Maxxis directeur sportif Mike Tamayo. “The guys have had a little time off following Redlands and they’re very ready to race.”
Gila is one of those races that was in danger of cancellation this year due to the economic downturn. However, SRAM, which provides components and drive trains for the OUCH Presented by Maxxis team-issue Kuotas, stepped in earlier this year to ensure that the 23rd edition of Gila went off.
“We’re really happy that SRAM stepped in to take over sponsorship,” Tamayo said. “Having one of our sponsors involved with the race gives us added incentive to put in a strong performance.
The five-day race includes three challenging road races, plus an individual time trial and a criterium in Silver City.
“This race favors riders like Floyd and Rory who can put in strong time trials, but also can go uphill really well,” Tamayo said.
The two leaders will be ably supported by team captain and super-domestique Tim Johnson, as well as climber Pat McCarty and workhorse Roman Kilun. Jonathon Chodroff will also put his big engine to work in support, but also look for a good effort in the time trial. Cameron Evans and Brad White will be looking for opportunities to get into breaks and influence the race in that way.
The OUCH Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis for the SRAM Tour of the Gila:
Jonathan Chodroff
Cameron Evans
Tim Johnson
Roman Kilun
Floyd Landis
Pat McCarty
Rory Sutherland
Brad White