Belgian team secures two young riders through 2011
Quick Step has extended their contract with Dario Cataldo for an additional year with an option for renewal. The 25 year old took the best young rider prize in the Tour of Missouri last year and took second place in the eleventh stage of this year’s Giro d’Italia, beating Carlos Sastre (Cervelo TestTeam) to the line in the mid-mountain stage.
“Cataldo is a young rider who’s continually growing,” explained team manager Patrick Lefevere. “He’s proven himself as an important component of the team’s economy, especially in stage races, and I hope that in the near future he will develop even further.”
Cataldo recently confirmed his ability against the clock by finishing second in the Italian national time trial championships behind five-time winner Marco Pinotti (HTC-Columbia.
“I’m really happy to be able to continue my adventure in the Quick Step jersey,” confirmed Cataldo. On this team I’ve found the ideal atmosphere in which to work well and I’ve been able to mature both as a person and a professional.”
Along with Caldato’s extension, the team has added young Belgian Julien Vermote for one year with an option for renewal starting in 2011. The 20 year old is from Kortrijk and is a time trial specialist. He currently rides for the Quick Step satellite team, Team Beveren 2000, and secured the U-23 time trial national championship title last year.
“I’m very happy,” added Vermote. “I’ll be wearing the Team Quick Step jersey, which is a dream come true for me. I’m honoured to be passing on to the pros with one of the strongest Belgian formations in the world. For a Flemish rider like me this is the best.
“I’ll finish up the season with Team Beveren 2000. This year I’ve already enjoyed two victories and I’ll be trying to obtain more important results. Then starting next season I’ll be available for Team Quick Step, and try to stand out and focus on learning how to ride in the world of the professionals.”