News
April 26, 2010
All roads lead to Texas! The team is already underway with the USA Crits National Series and USA Crits Speedweek, where we are seated top 5 currently in the overall of each. While speed week ends on May 2, the National Series continues at various stops throughout the year, ending at the teams largest goal and series final, TX Tough Grand Prix III.
"The event is grandiose. It is flashy and cool. Video screens everywhere, tons of fans and VIP areas." says Frankie Andreu, DS of KPC. "The race is awesome, but the cause is so much more than that. You really have to attend to understand. In fact, you need to attend and see why our team is pushing so hard to give the event exposure and why it is a major target for us." The team will heavily contest the entire USA Crits Series, but will focus primarily on the Grand Prix III and fund raising efforts for TX Tough. Visit txtgrandprix.org for details.
April 23, 2010
The man behind TX Tough Grand Prix III, also the USA Crits Finals, joins the team in Athens as an ambassador for the USA Crits Series and an actual member of the KPC unit. Geoff Godsey will make the trek to Athens and Speedweek from Dallas, TX to assist the team in its USA Crits and USA Crits Speeweek goals. A last minute illness that struck Scottie Weiss, created an unacceptable gap in the squad for the Nation's hardest Twilight criterium, and Geoff was quick to fill the slot.
Godsey is man behind TX Tough Grand Prix
"Geoff is a very driven individual." claims team GM, Chad Thompson. "He not only has made the TX Tough Grand Prix the flashiest criterium on earth, but has established a major fund raising vehicle for Children's Hospital, the same system that saved my child. He shares that very same drive on the bike, too. He carries a message and speed that benefits the team and cycling as a whole. We are proud to partner with him and spread the TX Tough word, as well as have him as a valuable addition to our elite roster."
Geoff is currently racing the USA Crits Speedweek series as stated above, and can also be seen racing at other major USA Crits stops throughout the year. Visit txtgrandprix.org or txtough.org.
April 20, 2010
KENDA Pro Cycling presented by GEARGRINDER has amazing U.S. opening campaign! With only the Tour de Taiwan under the team's belt, KPC set to start it's U.S. Domestic calendar by splitting squads between the grueling Tour of the Battenkill (UCI 1.2) and the Sunny King Criterium (NRC) this past weekend. While most all of the U.S. teams have been racing for a month now, we are just getting started. The team did not disappoint, turning heads and earning respect immediately with two very solid performances at the events. While both results would be just a photo finish away from a podium spot, both were done in style, with KPC flexing it's muscle and well tuned tactics brought to the team by DS, Frankie Andreu and it's Captains.
KPC in the closing laps of Sunny King.
April 17, 2010, Anniston, AL was to be the setting for the Sunny King Criterium (NRC). Ironically, the "Sunny" part of the title only applied to earlier events, as the Pro race is truly a twilight event, taking place in the evening hours with cooler temperatures and much larger crowds. The team came to contend and entertain, and so they did. A strong mix of our best elite and professional criterium riders were sent to back sprinter, Chad Burdzilauskas and display aggressive racing for the evens entirety. Early on, team captain, Chad Hartley, set off on his own for 18 laps, sweeping up primes and giving KPC first blood. A series of attacks ensued until the break-away of the evening found 14 riders with every team represented roll off at warp speed. Within the move was Rich Harper and Chad Burdzilauskas. Perfect. Rich would ignite the break and set off on several counter attacks to keep the break moving full-steam, and keep Chad B. rested. The break-away would eventually lap the star-studded field. KPC immediately took to the front and controlled the pace (pictured above) and sent Chris Monteleone off on a 12 lap rant to sweep up the remaining primes and keep the pace high. Once absorbed, Jamis and Kenda fought to keep lead-out control. In the end, Fly V would win the day and Burdzilauskas was in a photo finish for 2nd-5th, ending up in 4th by a hair. Solid performance for the team's very first criterium of the year!
Damiani riding his way to 4th at Battenkill.
One of the team's biggest goals for 2010 came early (along with it's first event at the Tour de Taiwan) in the form of the torturous Tour of the Battenkill, located in Cambridge, NY. Sunday's event was slated as a UCI 1.2 event, and as such, drew major talent from all over the globe. The race began making it's selections early. Really early. Mechanicals for riders in the first 60K, meant you were not getting back into the mix by any means. KPC riders Bush and Barberi met this fate within the first 40K, leaving the team with 7 strong men, all at the front of the event. Several moves would go, including an 18 man split that contained Nick Waite and Phil Gaimon. Jamis and TT1 were not happy with the selection, knowing Gaimon's ability to win, and the teams led a massive chase that only caught the break with 30K remaining in the race. From there, Floyd Landis (Bahati) and Caleb Fairley (Garmin) set off on what would be the winning move. Luca noticed this immediately, but could not scramble out of his position quickly enough to catch on. Joined only by Fly V's Thomson, the chase was on. Luca, doing the lion's share of the effort, kept the chase away from TT1's efforts and nearly caught Landis. Thomson would eventually nip Luca at the line, leaving KPC off of the podium by photo finish for the second consecutive day. This marks both Luca's and the team's best performance at the tough event. Team founder and GM had this to say of the weekend performances, "I am personally elated at both team's performances this weekend. Frankie and I worked hard on selecting a well-rounded roster, and I think we proved over our only three races thus far that we are real. While it may take the media a little while longer to catch on, all of our colleagues in the peloton have taken notice right away. To grab top spots in these UCI and NRC races is a great result and provides all of our sponsors with the exposure they deserve. Wait till these guys have more races in their legs!"
April 8, 2010
KPC announces 4 roster selections for upcoming events. Racing is finally here, and with only the Tour de Taiwan under our belts (where we scored 2nd Overall with Phil Gaimon), we are excited to get more opportunities to compete. Coming in this month of April are Sunny King Criterium (NRC), the Tour of the Battenkill (UCI 1.1), USA Crits Speedweek and SRAM Tour of the Gila Stage Race (NRC). Andreu has planned very carefully for each event, placing a variety of talent in each pool in hopes of amassing victories at all event types. The respective rosters are below:
Sunny King Criterium: Chad Burdzilauskas, Chad Hartley, Chris Monteleone, Jim Stemper, Marco Aledia, Rich Harper and Rob White.
Tour of the Battenkill: Jake Rytlewski, Jonny Sundt, Luca Damiani, Nick Keough, Nick Waite, Phil Gaimon, Rob Bush, Scottie Weiss and Stefano Barberi.
USA Crits Speedweek:Chad Burdzilauskas (Athens/Roswell only), Chad Hartley, Luca Damiani, Marco Aledia (Athens/Roswell only), Jonny Parrish, Jonny Sundt, Rich Harper, Rob Bush, Rob White, Scottie Weiss (Athens/Roswell only).
SRAM Tour of the Gila: Chris Monteleone, Jake Rytlewski, Jim Stemper, Nick Keough, Nick Waite, Phil Gaimon and Stefano Barberi.
March 24, 2010
Tour de Taiwan. The team has just returned from a long and very successful Tour de Taiwan, an International UCI 2.2 Asia Tour Stage Race in Taiwan, ROC. The 7 day stage race made it's way from the southern tip of the country to the north in Taipei. Being KPC's very first team event in 2010, Andreu and company were not sure what to expect, and definitely weren't prepared for the high temperatures and humidity that was present for most of the event. Nonetheless, KPC's aggressive racing earned them and immediate podium spot on day 1, and it would only advance from their.
Stage 1 Kaohsiung City - Chukou Road Race: The 95 degree Fahrenheit temperature, combined with near 90% humidity was a major shock to many of our riders, who are just coming off of winter and very little outdoor training, let alone competition. The race was very selective and shattered with 20 Km remaining to the finish, with a 12 man break-away creating an impossible pace in the heat. Among those in the lead group was KPC's own, Phil Gaimon. Another attack by Giant-Asia's, David McCann (a multiple-time Irish National Champion), initiated another broken selection, with only Gaimon and Australia's Clarke able to follow. Phil grabbed third on the day, trailing by only 11 seconds to McCann. Gaimon also snagged the Green Points Jersey and had the honor of wearing it for Stage 2.
Chad wears # 1 well - Credit Jackie Shao
Stage 2 Chiayi City - Hsingang Fongtian Temple Road Race: With the heat still reaching maximum temperatures, KPC seemed more comfortable than the previous day and had hoped to set up a stage win for it's sprinters, Hartley and Burdzilauskas (who was called up at the last minute to replace a mildly injured Barberi). A five man break was swallowed with 4 Km remaining and KPC kept our sprinters and GC man, Gaimon, at the front until a wild sprint. Hartley managed an 11th, but more importantly, Gaimon now moved to 2nd on the GC, having finished in front of Clarke on the day's sprint finish.
Phil in green at stage 2 sign in
Stage 3 Chang Hua Circuit Road Race: This was set to be a target for KPC to either grab yellow or nab a stage win. The plan almost worked with Jake Rytlewski following two other riders on an early attack, leaving the peloton at only 34 Km. Jake's group would reach an advantage of 5:45 at one point, and we had the outright leader on the road. The Hong Kong Team and Giant-Asia assumed a hard charging chase that did not seem as it could catch the group. But, the tailwinds and hard work of the GC teams caught Jake's 111 Km break-away group with only 600 meters remaining! Thanks to the distraction and a selfless wheel exchange by Hartley (who lost 26 minutes on the day waiting for a Neutral Support wheel) to Gaimon, the team remained in 2nd overall on the GC.
Andreu chats with Jake during his break
Stage 4 Taichung Circuit Race: The plan for KPC was simple. Assure a bunch sprint, keep Phil's position safe until stage 5 and contend the sprint if applicable. Jake spent much of the day chasing breaks and the team did a great lead out for Hartley, but the swarm kept him at bay. Phil was now tied for 2nd with 11 seconds between him and yellow.
Stage 5 Miaoli Circuit Road Race: Frankie's target for Phil and yellow was this very stage, as it had 3 major climbs. The plan was for Phil to attack on the final Category 1 climb, and hopefully take 3-4 others with him, barring McCann. Gaimon's attacks were so brutal, that only Hong Kong's KOM Race Leader was able to follow. This was a gamble, as the race had 50 Km of down-hill and windy flats to the finish. Nonetheless, Andreu told Gaimon to push on and go for yellow. The break was caught with only 3 Km to go, but it was a small selection. Unfortunately, it contained McCann. Gaimon grabbed a time bonus on the road and advanced to the sole possession of 2nd overall, now trailing McCann by a scant 8 seconds.
Stage 6 Taipei City - Shihsanhan Road Race: This was the final stage containing real climbs and hope of snatching the yellow from McCann's grasp. Phil and Japan's Miyazawa made many attempts, rendering McCann isolated and against the ropes several times, but with many kilometers of flat lands before the finish, Giant-Asia was able to bring the selected field to a sprint finish. KPC's Chad Burdzilauskas made a play for a stage win and was taken to the barriers. Chad recovered and still finished in a respectable 5th on the stage, his best UCI result to date. Gaimon remained in 2nd on the GC with only the final criterium stage remaining.
Stage 7 Taipei Criterium: Simple plan . . . race American style. Crit baby! The team had to stop a hard charging Miyazawa, of Japan's National Team from gaining any of the 3 sprint bonuses and any of the top 3 spots on the stage. Miyazawa had already collected 2 wins and several time bonuses, and sat in 4th on GC prior to the race start, only 14 seconds off of McCann. With the assistance of Rapha-Condor-Sharp and very hard work from the team, Miyazawa was neutralized. Jonny Sundt ended up in the final break and responded well to Andreu's order to drive it to the finish. Despite being within the field's reach several times, Sundt smashed the pace to keep it away and received a 5th place on the stage for a birthday gift. A job well done by Sundt and Burdzilauskas, who snagged the field's top spot at the finish. Phil secured 2nd on the GC, too.
An excited KPC team after TdT!
"This was a great start for us." claimed the team's Director Sportif, Frankie Andreu. "We are the first US Domestic Pro Team to earn an International UCI Stage Race podium in 2010. Now, hopefully we have race organizers' and sponsors' attention. I am proud of these guys and what Inferno has built for them." Team GM, Chad Thompson's opinion was similar. "I am so proud of these men. It was our first race. We came to win, but everyone does. We finished on the podium of a major international event. Great job guys!" Be sure to check out all of our great TdT photos at our Facebook page! The team's next stops will be at Sunny King Criterium (NRC) and the Tour of the Battenkill (UCI 1.1) in mid-April.
March 12, 2010
A camp retrospective. Camp has now come and gone, and what an event. Kenda's team pre-season training camp was held in Macon, GA from February 26 through March 6 and was attended by Inferno's full athletic and support staff, along with many sponsors. The camp did not disappoint. "The aim was to completely change in 2010." stated Chad Thompson, the team's founder and current General Manager. "We started by targeting a roster that would not only get us back to our winning ways, but far exceed them. Once we attained this completely, we chased down an experienced and well respected Director to lead them. That was obviously Frankie Andreu. The chemistry between the new roster, it's staff and new found leader in Andreu was evident on the very first day and throughout the entirety of camp."
First team ride - Credit Rick Tillery
Camp was filled with WN Systems bike fits, too many bike builds to count, keeping the team's mechanic, John Columbus, quite busy. Joining John's side to wrench was Out Spokin's, Josh Bogg's, and SRAM's notorious Merlyn Townley. Fitting was performed by team veteran, Jim Baldesare and long-time team supporter, Eddie O'dea of 55nine Performance. The vehicles were loaded to the gills with Thule racks, and the trailer designed and fitted by Inferno's Bruce Thompson, and sponsor/rider, Mario Mazza. Photos were taken by Ohio's own, Blair Fraley and the Social Media was handled by Inferno's newest staff member, Rick Tillery.
2010 Team - Credit Blair Fraley
The team had early morning meals, 4-6 hour daily rides, bike fits, custom shoe fitting from Lake's main man, photo sessions, team dinners and nightly meetings (where most team issued gear was handed out). The team's Director, Frankie Andreu, met with each individual to assign their personal race schedules through June and chatted about desires and expectations. Most of the guys were honored and excited to even be in the same room as this American cycling icon, let along working with him. The team's physician, Dr. Jason Brayley, met with each rider to discuss medical history and the importance of TUE forms, followed by legal and contract discussion with each rider by Dr. Bruce Thompson. Each rider even found time to see the team GM, Chad Thompson, regarding their role on the team and what they envisioned from their end. Every member seemed extremely excited and motivated throughout the entire camp.
The team will head home directly from camp, with 9 persons leaving for the Tour de Taiwan, only 3 days after their return. The Tour de Taiwan will not only mark the largest and most prestigious event in Inferno's history, but also Kenda Pro Cycling's first of the year. Wish us luck!
February 25, 2010
It is the eve of our 2010 Pre-Season Training Camp presented by Thomson, and a lot is going on here at Inferno, home of KPC. Luca Damiani is still in a paperwork battle for his Visa approval and has been delayed. He is still set to make the later portion of camp, and we thank all of you that have lessened his Visa cost burden. We have sold a little over half of what is needed to cover his costs entirely, so please go here and get yours now. We need to sell 100 more to cover all of the additional and unexpected rush processing fees.
Be sure to stop by and see us if you are in the state of Georgia. We will be in Macon for 10 days, but also have some special events elsewhere. Saturday, February 27, will have Frankie Andreu and company at the SEEME Bike Show in Atlanta. We will be parked at the 55nine Performance booth, so stop on by. The following day is scheduled to have Andreu and Thompson meet riders at Out Spokin' Bicycles to ride to Life Time Fitness with patrons for the Life Time Fitness Sunday ride (Mountain Brook facility in Woodstock, GA). We will be at the bike shop prior to the 1 PM ride that leaves LTF. This is your chance to ride with Frankie, as well as meet some of the team and staff, who will be spending the morning with Andrew Smith, LTF Eastern Endurance Head Coach, performing VO2 testing and body analysis for professional racers at the gym. There will be a short Q&A following the public ride at approximately 4 PM. See you there!
February 6, 2010
Want to ride with Frankie Andreu or some of the KENDA Pro Cycling presented by GEARGRINDER pros? Well, you can, for free! On Sunday February 28, 2010, Andreu, team GM, Chad Thompson and some of the KPC riders will be at the Life Time Fitness Mountain Brook facility in Woodstock, GA. The riders will be undergoing VO2 Max testing by Andrew Smith, Endurance Coach for Life Time Fitness in the morning, and then will join Andreu and the public for the 1:00 PM Sunday ride that leaves the Life Time building for a 35 mile session. All are welcome and there will be Q&A with Andreu and the team following the ride. For details, please visit our Facebook page and go to events tab. See you there!
February 2, 2010
Help KPC and Luca Damiani win races in 2010! The US Consulate in Milan, Italy has denied Luca Damiani a traveler's Visa today, citing possible immigration risk as the reason. Luca has raced in the states for 3 years and is a very proud Italian, who has no intention of ever changing his nationality. Nonetheless, Luca now needs the intervention of a Visa law specialist at a cost of over $3,000.00 USD to get him here on time! This hardly seems fair. To help Inferno Racing LLC, a non-profit organization, and Luca, MATTEO Studios is offering a limited edition "Free Luca" T-shirt. ALL proceeds will go directly to funding Damiani's Visa. Should there be any extra monies raised, it will be donated to the TX Tough cause and Children's Hospital. Click here for online store.
Click image to order yours today!
January 29, 2010
Congratulations to Kenda Pro Cycling's Luca Damiani, who has just been named to the Italian National Cyclocross World Championship Team! Luca will don the Italian National Skinsuit, complete with Kenda logos for the Elite (Pro) World Championships on January 31, 2010. Good luck, Luca!
January 18, 2010
New additions bring early wins for KENDA Pro Cycling p/b GEARGRINDER off the paved path. Luca Damiani, a fortified cyclocross veteran, made another bid for his Italian National World's Team selection by blazing to a victory at the 50th Ciclocross di Solbiate, a major cross event in Italy. The win marked Kenda's first win off of US soil in 2010, and also the first victory of the year for KPC! Luca is looking to be a great candidate for his country's World Championship Team selection, and we hope for his selection, as it appears well deserved.
Damiani celebrating his win in Italy!
The same day brought another win off road for KPC, with Jonny Sundt, newly appointed road captain, taking the top spot at the Texas State Cyclocross Championships. Both riders will bring their Cyclocross training and leadership skills to the table throughout the year, adding even more depth and ammunition to the team's well rounded arsenal. Congratulations to both riders.
January 13, 2010
KENDA Pro Cycling p/b GEARGRINDER adds new race to early season line up and another form of media. KPC is now on Facebook! Be sure to become our friend or fan and follow us throughout 2010 and beyond, as we grow and accomplish goals. Click here or the new button in our navigation bar for our Facebook page. Inferno has also added Valley of the Sun Stage Race, based in Phoenix, AZ, to its early season plans. Make sure to attend the race and cheer for your favorite KPC rider!
January 5, 2010
Something so small can be so cool. Thomson (LH Thomson Co.), maker of fine machined stems, seat posts and other bicycle products, has released its long awaited seat collar. This little gem (pictured below) will be the perfect addition to our 2010 dream machines. Inferno has an ideal of perfection with ever item used by its athletes, and that's why Thomson products have been chosen to grace our equipment since our inception. For more info, visit LHThomson.com.
January 2, 2010
Masi has prepped our special team frames and readied them for final paint. Below is a sneak peak at our team only, Kenda 3VC design. Anyone can purchase the same frame and/or complete bikes in the Volumetrica 3VC or Team Issue lines, all available in several color formats. 3VC frames feature High-Modulus carbon, lugged seat tube to top tube interface, for increased stiffness, convex seat stays that create a shortened wheel base and a wishbone seat stay. Visit masibikes.com for details.
December 31, 2009
All of us at Inferno Racing LLC and KENDA Pro Cycling presented by GEARGRINDER would like to wish everyone a very Happy New Year! May all of your 2010 dreams turn into reality and KPC's resolutions come to fruition. See you out there!
December 30, 2009
Kenda has finally released their top secret and first tubular tire line, to be released to the public February of 2010. An advantage of being a testing and product development partner, as well as the company's title pro team, is to receive such items before anyone else. Kenda's tubular line will cover all bases with the Volare, Super Domestique and Domestique (folding tubular) tires. Below (left) is an image of the first pair of Super Domestiques to hit the Inferno Racing LLC Headquarter's door step. Check out kendausa.com for more details.
The high-end rubber will be mounted to state-of-the-art Mercury full carbon wheels. Mercury, a brand new wheel and bicycle manufacturer, has released it full clincher and tubular wheel line. The array of models include 38s, 58s, discs and whopping 85s (pictured above - right) sporting DT Swiss or JoyTech hubs. KENDA Pro Cycling presented by GEARGRINDER will mount all models in clincher and tubular on their Masi Kenda 3VC rigs in 2010. Be sure to check them out at any event we are at! Modestly priced wheels at the highest end of performance, guaranteed. For more information, visit mercurybikes.com.
December 29, 2009
MATTEO Studios has released it's new "Shirt of the Week" program. Hip clothing and cool duds that are made in one-time, limited runs. For this week's shirt, click here. Sales for this shirt end at midnight on Sunday, January 3, 2010. Be sure to get get yours now!
December 24, 2009
The UCI and USAC have released American Continental UCI team selections and rosters today. Click here for official USAC announcement. There is a lot of talent on our program and KPC is excited for the coming battles in 2010. Team GM, Chad Thompson, Director, Frankie Andreu and the entirety of the Professional and Elite rosters and staff will convene February 26 through March 6, 2010 in Georgia for the team's pre-season training camp and planning sessions. Season's Greetings and Happy Holidays to everyone from all of us at Inferno Racing LLC
December 21, 2009
An in-depth interview with KENDA Pro Cycling p/b GEARGRINDER's new Director Sportif, Frankie Andreu. Click here for full interview.
December 20, 2009
KENDA Pro Cycling presented by GEARGRINDER announces final 2010 roster and looks to training camp to refine tools needed to win throughout the season. The team has settled on 14 professional riders and 6 elite and regional riders, all donning the same uniform and racing for the same goal.
Professional Roster: Chad Burdzilauskas (USA), Chad Hartley (USA), Chris Monteleone (USA), Jake Rytlewski (USA), Jim Stemper (USA), Jonny Parrish (USA), Jonny Sundt (USA), Luca Damiani (ITA), Nick Keough (USA), Nick Waite (USA), Phil Gaimon (USA), Rob Bush (USA), Scottie Weiss (USA) and Stefano Barberi (BRA).
Elite Roster: Geoff Godsey, Jim Baldesare, Marco Aledia, Rich Harper, Rob White and Ryan Gamm.
December 19, 2009
Inferno Racing LLC and RBA (Road Bike Action Magazine) have formed a partnership for 2010 and beyond. The partnership's goal is to promote Inferno and it's team(s) in every issue, and on their web-site (roadbikeaction.com). In turn, Inferno and KPC will assist RBA in achieving the increase in distribution and circulation it deserves, as one of the truly great industry magazines out there.
Robb Mesecher of RBA, an avid cyclist himself, was excited at the opportunity to form an alliance with a team and company that started from the same grass-roots foundation as Inferno. "Robb and I share the same goals and really met eye-to-eye immediately when discussing the possible collaboration." says GM, Chad Thompson. Our contract term with our previous publication partner had come to an end, and we needed to make some decisions quickly. While our last partnership was amazing and shed light on our vision in a great magazine, we find Robb and RBA's vision another outstanding fit. We are excited to provide our sponsors and fans with Inferno's unique ads and flare on a monthly basis within the pages of RBA, as well as daily on their web-site Be sure to subscribe to the magazine and visit their site often!"
December 19, 2009
Inferno Racing LLC has added the final bullet to the KENDA Pro Cycling p/b GEARGRINDER chamber, bringing the magic pro roster number to 14, with the signing of Italian star, Luca Damiani. Additions to Elite and regional teams bring the Pin-Striped Posse© to an even 20 as the team gears up for a successful 2010 season. Luca Damiani, winner of the 2008 CSC Invitational, 2009 Iron Hill Twilight and several other races, brings aggressive racing and tremendous skill to an already well rounded roster.
"Luca was too good to pass up, and makes our roster much deeper than it already was." states team director, Frankie Andreu. "I was interested in Damiani for quite a while now, and after doing the research on him, Frankie and I agreed he was the perfect replacement for our 14th slot." Continued team GM, Chad Thompson. Damiani, a well established international cyclocross star, started professional racing on US soil in 2008-2009 on the former Colavita/Sutterhome Pro Cycling Team and has signed a 1 year deal with KPC, which everyone hopes to extend into further years. You may read the CyclingNews.com article by clicking here.
December 18, 2009
KENDA Pro Cylcing p/b GEARGRINDER's web-site is currently undergoing it's updates and transformations as we enter 2010 with our new sponsors, rosters and goals. Please be sure to check back often and hit the refresh button. We hope to have the updates completed soon and appreciate our fans patronage to our site. The coming days will see more content changes, a roster addition announcement, an in-depth interview with Kenda's new Director, Frankie Andreu and other big news. Stay tuned and Happy Holidays from Inferno Racing and the KENDA Pro Cycling p/b GEARGRINDER team.
November 15, 2009
Team kit released. Inferno maintains trademark pin-stripes and base colors for 2010! The new kit will debut at the team's pre-season camp starting February 26, 2010 at a location to be announced. The 2010 uniform will see it's first race in the weeks following training camp at the Tour of Taiwan, a UCI 2.2 rated stage race.
November 12, 2009
KENDA Pro Cycling presented by GEARGRINDER has partnered with the Texas Tough Foundation and it's marquis event, the TX Tough Criterium. TX Tough raises money for the privately funded Children's Hospital in Dallas, TX. The hospital is the fourth largest children's specific hospital in the country. It operates solely on private funding, and Geoff Godsey of the TX Tough Foundation has incorporated a top-notch, high-profile series of events that specifically target fund raising for this amazing hospital. "Pediatric facilities hold a special place in my heart, personally." says team founder and GM, Chad Thompson. "My wife and I almost lost our daughter in her 6th week of life, and thanks to pediatric specific facilities, she was saved. She continued illness for nearly a year and a half, but these amazing people helped bring her to the healthy child she is today. Supporting Geoff's foundation and the event was an easy decision for us." Inferno and TX Tough will release more details of the partnership and fund raising efforts in the coming weeks. For more information, please visit www.txtough.org.
November 5, 2009
Tour de Taiwan invites Kenda's flagship UCI Continental Team to compete in 2010! Thanks to Jimmy Yang (Kenda), Stefano Lumbaca (Kenda) and Eric Yang (Kenda), Inferno's restructured UCI Continental team, led by 9-time Tour de France veteran, Frankie Andreu, the Tour de Taiwan organizers have found our professional team a worthy competitor in 2010.
As a result, the UCI 2.2 Stage Race, starting March 14, 2010, will mark the team's first official 2010 event, followed by the USA's UCI 1.2 Tour of the Battenkill. The team's annual pre-season training camp will be held in early March, leading to the challenging Taiwan event that coincides with the Taipei Bike Show. KENDA Pro Cycling p/b GEARGRINDER will send a formidable 5 man roster to the event to be named at a later date.
November 4, 2009
KENDA Pro Cycling presented by GEARGRINDER signs several new returning suppliers for 2010. While the team still searches for a new Co-Sponsor, several new suppliers and supporting sponsors have joined the program. New for 2010 are the already announced presenting sponsor, GEARGRINDER, a cycling specific clothing company based in Wisconsin. In addition to GEARGRINDER, KPC has been honored by support from Dumonde Tech Oils, Feedback Sports, GU, Kerley Ink, Mercury Wheels, ProNet, Quarq, Reynolds Composites, Selle Italia, Thule and Uberhund.
Returning support to the team includes Bonk Protective Films, Bruce Thompson LLC, Chamois Butt'R, 55nine, FRS Healthy Energy, Hincapie Sportswear, Jagwire, KENDA, Kinetic by Kurt, Kore, Lake Shoes, Look, Masi, Matteo Studios, Mazza Wines, Paceline Products, Qoleum, Rudy Project, Skins, SockGuy, SRAM, Thomson, Travelers Insurance, TruTrainer, Velimpex, Vetta, Wippermann and Wobble-Naught.
Several remaining sponsors are in negotiation and will be released at a later date. KENDA Pro Cycling p/b GEARGRINDER welcomes all new supporters to the Inferno Racing family and is honored by it's entire cast of sponsors, both new and continuing.
October 16, 2009
The cat's out of the bag, and our DS has been announced for 2010 and beyond, as well as a new presenting sponsor! 9-time Tour de France veteran and VS Channel personality, Frankie Andreu has been named our official Director Sportif, starting with the 2010 season. Frankie brings a wealth of talent, experiences and wisdom to Inferno's program and brings the team to it's next step in a successful growth history. "We have been in discussion with Frankie for 2 years," says team GM, Chad Thompson. "Thankfully, Frankie believes in our team and shares our vision. Inferno is more than excited that we have come to agreement for his services."
Also Joining the team is new presenting sponsor, GEARGRINDER Cycling Inspired Clothing produces its own brand of cyclist-inspired casual clothing meant for off-the-bike wear. Already a strong supporter of elite level teams, Gear Grinder is stepping into the pro arena with Kenda, and the partnership seems a perfect fit. The team is now known as KENDA Pro Cycling presented by GEARGRINDER. While the team is set to compete with a heavy schedule throughout 2010, Inferno is still in the hunt for a co-sponsor to bring additional comfort and stronger major US major tour funding (e.g. Tour of California, Tour de Georgia and Tour of Missouri). Stay tuned for more updates, roster announcements and news.
Click here for official press release.
October 8, 2009 (Revised)
KPC releases 17 of 20 names to new team! The program bolsters roster, equipment and staff for 2010 season and beyond with key signings. While a major press release awaits the finalization of the remaining offers on the table, Kenda's team has released 13 of the 16 rider's names on the pro roster and 4 of the elite positions. Inferno Racing has made significant strides in it's GC strength and keeps it's core by returning Jake Rytlewski, Scottie Weiss and Jonathan Parrish. Criterium ace, Chad Burdzilauskas also rejoins the team with a top-notch lead-out team to back him and another unannounced finisher in 2010. The team will release the remaining pro roster, elite roster, and DS names in the coming week, so stay tuned!
New transfers to Kenda Pro Cycling p/b GearGrinder are Philip Gaimon (Jelly Belly), Chad Hartley (formerly BMC), Jonny Sundt and Nick Waite (Kelly Benefit & Strategies), and Stefano Barberi (formerly of Toyota-United), who is making his return to the pro peloton in 2010. A class of Neo-pros join the squad, too, including Nick Keough (BikeReg.com), Rob Bush (Texas Roadhouse) and Superweek amateur sensation, James Stemper (GearGrinder). Rob White (Gear Grinder) will be joining the elite team.
2010 Roster: Chad Burdzilauskas, Chad Hartley, Chris Monteleone, Jake Rytlewski, James Stemper, Jim Baldesare*, Jonny Parrish, Jonny Sundt, Marco Aledia*, Nick Keough, Nick Waite, Philip Gaimon, Rich Harper*, Rob Bush, Rob White*, Scottie Weiss, Stefano Barberi.
* Indicates elite rider
September 11, 2009
Kenda Pro Cycling set to continue as UCI Continental team in 2010. KPC will remain a professional road team in 2010, and Kenda will continue as the title sponsor. "Many exciting things are happening here at Inferno." says team boss, Chad Thompson. "In fact, we wish we could spill all the beans, but have to keep most of it confidential for at least 2 more weeks." This news refers to additional sponsors, a new DS and several new riders to enhance the KPC program.
New names on the professional roster that can be released are returning riders Burdzilauskas, Monteleone, Parrish, Rytlewski, Stanfield and Weiss. While many new additions have been made, the new talent that can be known are Chad Hartley (formerly of BMC), Nick Keough (BikeReg.com), James Stemper (Best Amateur at Superweek and NVGP) and Nick Waite (formerly of Kelly Benefit & Strategies). Many other offers have been made, many signed and only a handful remain (though applications to the team are closed). Our new DS is working hard with the current management team to finalize the roster and release it to the public. Stay tuned!
September 9, 2009
Great success for Chad Burdzilauskas at St. Louis's Gateway Cup omnium. Chad was the sole KPC representative at the 4 race series and placed 2nd overall on the GC with consistency and aggressive riding. Chad scored 2 podiums and 2 6th place finishes to secure his overall placing. "It was great, and lots of fun." Chad stated about the long weekend of racing. "I was also able to meet and race against my future teammates, Chad Hartley and James Stemper. Man, those guys are good!" Burdzilauskas only has 1 race remaining at the USA Crits Series Finals in Las Vegas, NV. Chad hopes to win the race and get married the next day to his fiance.
August 31, 2009
US Pro Road Race reports do Kenda Pro Cycling presented by Spinergy no justice. "It seems par for the course this year with internet media outlets." states team GM, Chad Thompson. "Every single report written this year seems to leave our name out, yet the results have our names in them. Odd. But, that should not take away from the incredible riding the guys did today. Jake's result is not an indicator of the team's efforts. If it were not for us, the break of the day would not have been caught, and all the big names would have been out of luck."
The team boss refers to the days largest early move of 12 riders. This breakaway contained representation from every team, except Columbia-HTC and Saxo Bank (who had 2 and 1 rider respectively). KPC also had a rider that bridged to that very move (Chris Monteleone), making it 13 strong and the gap at over 4 minutes. Kenda Pro Cycling made the decision to set a hard chase, as our main contenders will still in the bunch. This would not prove an easy task, as KPC lost several major components of its engine in the first 15 miles! An early crash removed Swain, Harper (in his pro debut) and Stevenson. 4 miles later, an untimely mechanical saw podium hopeful, Scottie Weiss, needing a rear wheel. Jon Parrish sacrificed his ride for his leader and that left him out, too. 20 minutes of chasing ensued for Weiss, who caught the bunch and moved straight to the front. The decision was made that Rytlewski and Spinelli were our hopefuls, so the remaining riders laid down the law at the front with a massive 5 rider chase. OUCH sent a couple of guys to assist, as well, and at the base of Paris Mountain, the gap was only 37 seconds. Jake and Justin put down the pedal and closed the gap to zero!
Jake was still recovering when the counter went, but he did chase into the main chase group of 12 riders that included Tony Cruz (BMC), Colby (Colavita-Sutterhome), Lewis (Columbia-HTC) and others. Jake decided to take it to the line and took the sprint in his group, rendering him 19th on the day. "I really did not have good legs today. Really. But my teammates sacrifices and radio chatter from the team car kept me going." said Rytlewski. "I will try one more time at Univest before I pack it up for the winter.
August 30, 2009
Matt Winstead is facing his last races with KPC, as he plans on retiring at year's end. This being the case, Winstead is riding his heart out for some great results and memories. Yesterday marked his last ITT at the US Pro ITT National Championships, and Matt scored a hard earned 11th place! While it is not the podium, he did beat brilliant time trial specialists, including OUCH's Floyd Landis and Chris Baldwin. Great job, Matt!
August 23, 2009
Unstoppable! Jake Rytlewski, hired by Kenda Pro Cycling presented by Spinergy for his climbing and GC prowess, again stuns criterium specialists! This time Jake gets another NRC podium with a 5th place at the Marion Classic. With a star-studded field, including full rosters from Kelly Benefit & Strategies and Colavita-Sutterhome, and stars like Rahsaan Bahati and Karl Menzies, KPC brought it's small 5 man roster in hopes of a solid result. Jake launched an attack to bridge to a 3 man break, and successfully crossed, joining Menzies and others in the closing laps. After some heavy work by Jake, the break stayed away (never catching the lone Colavita rider in the lead) and Jake snagged yet another 5th place. Chad Burdzilauskas saw his field sprint victory hopes dashed with another final lap crash, but was uninjured. "I cannot believe how well criteriums are going for me!" says Rytlewski. "Today, last week and at Meijer, the team rode so great. We always try to set up our star sprinters (Chad, Ben or Marco), but I am finding myself covering the right moves. Luck, I guess? I am targeting US Pro Road Race National Championships (next week), where we have an awesome roster. I mean, Justin Spinelli will be riding with me! I seem to have hit fitness at the exact time needed, so keep your fingers crossed. As awesome as this is, I am so bummed for Chad. He is really the unsung sprinter in the NRC and could have added a 6th place finish for us. Get 'em at Thater, Chad!"
Owner and GM, Chad Thompson, had this to say about Jake and Marion: "I am not surprised by Jake's successes in criteriums over the last 4 weeks. Although, a bit shocked with the US Pro Criterium, where Jake amazed the best sprinters in the country, the others were in breakaways where only strong men survive (men like Tom Zirbel of Bissell and Karl Menzies of OUCH). Jake is built to climb, and does it better than anyone, but his power-to-weight ratio is off the charts, ProTour even. These numbers make him a threat, regardless of race type. We are working to make him more aggressive, and it is working! Man, are we glad we have him (currently and through 2011)." Jake will race next in Greenville, SC at the US National Pro Road Race Championships.
August 20, 2009
The team continues it's new found groove with tomorrow's Marion Classic, a NRC criterium held in Marion, IN. The team is red hot in criteriums as of late, with 10 top 5s in NRC competition. Chad Burdzilauskas has been setting the tone with a 2nd at the SuperWeek opener and a 5th at the star-studded Chicago Criterium, while the teams "climber", Jake Rytlewski has placed 2nd at the Meijer Classic and an astounding 5th place at last weekend's US Professional National Criterium Championships! The team's core domestiques have delivered the guys to the front for sprint contention on a regular basis since late July, and it is paying dividends. Furthermore, KPC boasts 3 Indiana residents in Chad Burdzilauskas, Jake Rytlewski and Bennet van der Genugten. All 3 are keen on a spectacular home turf performance, with the support of criterium specialists, Jim Baldesare, Ben Renkema, Marco Aledia and Rich Harper. 2 Indiana base sponsors, TruTrainer and Wheeltags, hope for a stellar performance as well, and the guys won't let them down. Be sure to stop by Kenda's tent, too, and check out Indiana's TruTrainer rollers, the official and chosen roller of KPC.
August 17, 2009
Near disaster ends in great ride for Kenda Pro Cycling presented by Spinergy at US Professional Criterium Championships! Another rain-soaked event (that marred Inferno's hopes in 2007, with a crash taking out Hekman in the final turns), saw many crashes and many injured contenders. KPC's hopes were in criterium master, Chad Burdzilauskas, who had every indication that a championship was in his reach. When the final tally of crashes took their toll, only 30 riders made it to the finish, with KPC finishing 3 of our own. The final lap crashes snagged Chad's hopes of a podium finish (ending up in 16th, still grabbing a top 20 result and more NRC points), and looked to keep the team out of contention. Jake Rytlewski, the teams "climber", picked up where he left off at the Meijer Classic and throttled the remaining field to get on the US podium!
"It didn't look possible." stated Elite team leader, Marco Aledia. "He came out of the second to last turn 100 meters behind the leading contenders, following a big crash. But, he managed to get within 20 meters before the last turn, where Bahati (Rock Racing) hit the deck and took Candelario and Keough (Kelly Benefit & Strategies) out of their pedals. Jake passed that situation and caught the contenders for an outstanding 6th place sprint, and the 5th American across the line." KPC will continue this momentum into The Marion Classic this weekend, and the penultimate US National Road Race Championships on August 30.
August 9, 2009
Success for KPC in Michigan! With rosters split between the Meijer Cycling Classic (Grand Rapids, MI) and the Presbyterian Invitational/Hanes Park Criterium races (NC), the team was hoping for solid results and great final prep racing for the National Criterium Championships next week. While Matt Winstead had a good ride at the Presbyterian race, it was the Meijer roster that shined on Saturday! Jake Rytlewski forced an early move that stuck, earning him the Most Aggressive Rider award and eventually 2nd place on the day! Only Bissell's Tom Zirbel could follow, and with Jake doing the lion's share of the work, the duo gained a massive advantage on the field. Subway-Avanti's Hayden Godfrey launched a last minute attack in attempt to grab the win, but was to take himself and Kenda Pro Cycling's Chad Burdzilauskas to the line in 3rd and 4th spots respectively. Ben Renkema had a good day, too, and finished 3rd in the bunch kick for 7th, making 3 riders in the top 10 and 2 on the podium for KPC! Stay tuned for the Hanes Park report.
August 6, 2009
Kenda Pro Cycling presented by Spinergy is sending everything they have to Downers Grove, IL in an attempt at the elusive Stars-and-Stripes. KPC will be sending riders to both the Elite and Professional US Criterium Championships, to be held on Sunday, August 16. Most of KPC's riders will be in attendance, so make sure you are there to cheer them on. Set some time aside to stop by the team's tents, too, and have a chat with them! Elite roster: Marco Aledia, Jim Baldesare, Jeff Braumberger and Rich Harper (who will be turning pro for the remainder of 2009, following this race). Pro roster: Chad Burdzilauskas, Jaime Gandara, Bennet van der Genugten, Remi McManus, Chris Monteleone, Jonathan Parrish, Ben Renkema, Jake Rytlewski and Tim Swain will ride for their crit ace in hopes of capturing a National title.
August 4, 2009
The Tour of Elk Grove tough for KPC, but Winstead has 3 great days! The team rode for Matt Winstead, as his form is coming to fruition, and he proved it at the 3 day stage race, touted as the richest in the U.S. While all of the KPC riders were aggressive and active, Winstead earned a top 20 in every stage to prove he is near where he wants to be. With only weeks remaining to the National Championship Road Race and Univest Grand Prix, Matt continues to refine his form. Be sure to follow his progress to his late season targets.
July 27, 2009
The tides are turning for KPC! For the 3rd consecutive week, Kenda's professional criterium ace, Chad Burdzilauskas, cracks the top 5 for more NRC points and exposure for the team! This Sunday's NRC Chicago Criterium had a stacked field, including top-tier US teams and UCI ProTour riders. Chad was placed in the front of the field by his hard charging teammates and claimed 5th behind some of the best talent on the planet. Congrats to Chad and a well riding KPC team!
July 24, 2009
Welcome new rider, Chris Monteleone. With Kenda Pro Cycling's plan to be even larger and more competitive in 2010, KPC has added U23 phenom, Chris Monteleone, effective immediately through 2010. Chris holds many accolades and is a current member of the US National U23 Team. Look for Monteleone to rock our pin-stripes at major races across the US, including his first crack at the US Pro Road Race National Championships!
July 12, 2009
Kenda Pro Cycling presented by Spinergy grabs first major podium of 2009! While the team has performed amazingly, while faced with a slew of unforeseen issues, the podium at a major National event has eluded the pin-striped racers. Chad Burdzilauskas showed why he was recruited as the team's criterium ace, with a 2nd place at the International Cycling Classic & Superweek Pro Tour opener, the Beverly Hills Cycling Classic Criterium. Burdzilauskas, riding as the sole KPC member in the event, ignited the chase of the days early break-away, containing a trio of Fly V Australia riders. The chase quickly caught the break-away, and the now 15 strong move made a fast effort of lapping the remaining Pro/1 field. Burdzilauskas made his second aggressive move with 2 turns remaining, and only Bernard Sulzberger could keep up. After leading-out 700 of the final 100 meters, Chad saw Sulzberger, the current Australian Criterium Champion, came around him on the line. Read more by clicking here. Chad followed this awesome performance by racking up another top 10 finish at Superweek's second race, the Blue Island Pro-Am, with an 8th place finish. Chad now sits second in the race leader and points competition at Superweek, right behind Sulzberger. Be sure to follow today's Elgin Cycling Classic Road Race to see where "Bird" ends up!
July 4, 2009
Drats, second . . . . again! Marco Aledia found himself in another photo-finish for the Stars & Stripes jersey today. Last year, Aledia was on the wrong side of the photo-finish battle with Ken Hanson (Team Type 1) for the U.S. National Elite Criterium Championship title. Today, Marco, one of the team's few Elite riders, was again nipped by less than a tire at the U.S. National Master 30-34 Criterium Championship. KPC's sprint finisher stated, "Well, I have another shot at the Elite U.S. title in August, eh?" Be sure to see Marco sprint to a hopeful victory at the elusive Elite criterium championship in August.
June 30, 2009
Kenda Pro Cycling presented by Spinergy takes to the fitchburg-Longsjo Stage Race this week in hopes of returning the title to 2007 overall winner, Jake Rytlewski. Jake Rytlewski won NRC Race in 2007, and is suited to its hilly terrain and power rider requirements. KPC is fortifying his defense roster with a mix of climbing, all-around and TT specialists. Rytlewski seems especially motivated, returning less than a week ago, following a broken collar-bone injury he received at the Joe Martin Stage Race in May.
Fitchburg-Longsjo Roster:
- Andy Applegate
- Jake Rytlewski
- Ty Stanfield
- Tim Swain
- Bennet van der Genugten
- Scottie Weiss
- Matt Winstead
- TBA
June 17, 2009
Two jerseys in three days for KPC! Kenda Pro Cycling presented by Spinergy's Marco Aledia is seeing green . . . again! Winner of three consecutive and five overall Tour of Ohio Sprinter/Points Jerseys, Marco is no stranger to wearing green. Marco aims to make this his fourth consecutive Green Jersey win at his hometown event.
Capturing the jersey after placing second on stage 1, and nabbing the mid-race points sprint, Aledia sits comfortably in the peloton as one of the best criterium racers in the country. With 5 stages remaining, two being criteriums, Marco has a great shot at the repeated win. Good luck, Marco!
June 16, 2009
NVGP ends in success for Kenda Pro Cycling presented by Spinergy, despite the team's continued string of bad luck, with Ty Stanfield winning the Most Aggressive Rider Jersey on the pinultimate Stage 5. Several crashes marred the team in each stage, taking out Jaime Gandara (with a mild concussion) and Chad Burdzilauskas (with 2 deep lacerations, requiring 19 stitches). Nonetheless, the team made a pre-race plan to nab the Most Aggressive Rider Jersey on Stage 5 - Mankato Road Race, and win the jersey we did!
An early attack by Floyd Landis (OUCH presented by Maxxis) allowed 14 riders to get an advantage of 8 minutes on the peloton. With all major teams represented but ours, the team took to the front with all of our riders and sent Tyler Stanfield out for the impossible chase. Joined by one other rider, the duo bridged the gap, while passing riders being ejected from the early move. Once Ty made contact, he rested for a mere minute before launching an attack on the 14 man break-away, attracting the attention of the always-aggressive, Chad Gerlach (Amore & Vita presented by Lifetime Fitness). The two set off for 80 kilometers on there own, before eventually being joined by 6 others chasing from the original break-away. Ty attacked yet again, earning him both respect from his break-away companions, and the Most Aggressive Rider Jersey (pictured above). The counter attack by Chad Gerlach proved too tough for all but two others, who held off the charging field by only 2 seconds. Ty still earned 17th on the day and one awesome jersey!
June 15, 2009
Rytlewski is back! Ben Renkema refines sprint form and Baldesare is back in the mix, too. The trio dominated Le Tour de Mont Pleasant Omium, with several full powered 8 rider teams trying to stop them. The opening criterium had Jake and Jim lead out Ben Renkema into the last corner with a 3 bike length lead, and Ben only added distance from there. The following day placed both Renkema, and the now healed Rytlewski (returning 4 weeks after fracturing his collar bone at Joe Martin Stage Race) in the winning break-away. Both finished in the top 10 of the 105 mile road race, and ultimately earned Renkema the overall title and another win for Kenda Pro Cycling!
June 7, 2009
While bad luck again snared the hopes of a major result at the Philadelphia International Championships, the team finished strongly, and was a major factor (along with Kelly Benfit and Stategies, OUCH and Fly V Austrailia) in realing in the day's power break, that contained 5 Columbia-High Road riders. The team set an early plan to keep team captain, Scottie Weiss, and returning strong-man, Matt Winstead in the finishing sprint with the leaders. KPC was very successfull, sending both into the final turn in the top 20. Yet another big crash ruined the plan, sending many riders to the floor with less than 500 kilometers to go. The team rode an amazing race and gave each and every sponsor and fan the exposure that Inferno's team deserves. Next up is Nature Valley Grand Prix Stage Race in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
May 25, 2009
TD Bank Philadelphia International Championship is upon us, and Kenda Pro Cycling, despite many injuries, will send a well mixed and talented roster, that seems to finally be coming into form. Be sure to cheer and support your favorite Kenda rider!
TD Bank Philly International Roster:
- Chad Burdzilauskas
- Jaime Gandara
- Jonathan Parrish
- Ty Stanfield
- Russell Stevenson
- Bennet van der Genugten
- Scottie Weiss
- Matt Winstead
May 24, 2009
Another member of the family has come into this world. Congratulations to Tim and Carmen Swain on the birth of their baby boy, Gavin McKever Swain. Gavin weighed in at 6 lbs. 6oz. and measured 19.5 inches. Good luck to the Swain family!
May 14, 2009
Wilmington Grand Prix and Kelly Cup Bike Jam rosters announced.
Wilmington GP and Kelly cup Rosters:
- Marco Aledia
- Jim Baldesare
- Chad Burdzilauskas
- Rich Harper
- Remi McManus
- Jonathan Parrish
- Tim Swain
- Bennet van der Genugten
May 14, 2009
Jake "the Snake" Rytlewski aims to return by Fitchburg - Longsjo, if not sooner. Team Doctor, Jason Brayley and his colleagues worked feverishly to find Jake the best care possible, in the shortest amount of time possible.
After 3 opinions, it was decided Jake's fracture would heal better without surgery and he will be back on the road in 3 weeks! While being left off the Nature Valley Grand Prix roster, Jake intends to return to Fitchburg, where he won in 2007, as the team leader on July 2. Be sure to come out and cheer him on!
May 12, 2009
Russell Stevenson is back in the pro ranks. KPC has transferred Russell from the elite roster to the professional roster, effective immediately.
Russell has displayed both strength and leadership on the bike already in 2009. With the unfortunate absence of Rytlewski for an unknown time frame, a rider was needed to fill the void. Look for Russell next at the TD Bank Philadelphia International Championship.
May 11, 2009
More bad luck and broken bones! KPC sent a potent and hopeful roster to Joe Martin Stage Race with its sites on making their presence known. All KPC found was bad luck at every turn, and new ways to cope with it all as a team.
Day 1 found Jaime Gandara eliminated, after being held up at the Time Trial start by officials weighing and measuring equipment. While in line with plenty of time to spare, the procedure took him to the start house over 1 minute after his scheduled start. Day 2 brought an untimely mechanical to team leader, Jake Rytlewski. 3 members sacrificed themselves to bring Jake back to the lead group, and burned every match they had in the process. Day 2 also had Ben Renkema struck by a car and Bennet van der Genugten break his coccyx (tail bone) in a freak crash. Day 3 brought the team's biggest blow when Jake Rytlewski was taken down and found by the paramedics unconscious and with a broken clavicle (collar bone).
"And then there 3. Just like that." says team boss, Thompson. "The guys kept finding adversity around every corner. Literally. But they never gave up. They kept fighting when most would have abandoned. I am proud of the integrity and grit this new team has displayed. Trust me, podiums and magazine appearances are only weeks away!
May 4, 2009
Joe Martin Stage Race roster announced. Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy sends a talented roster to JMSR with big ambitions. "It is time to test our new team." states GM, Chad Thompson. "These guys are hard men, and are very tight. If we succeed, we do it together. If the ship is sinking, we all go down together. Let's see what happens."
Joe Martin Stage Race Roster:
- Jamie Gandara
- Jonathan Parrish
- Ben Renkema
- Jake Rytlewski
- Ty Stanfield
- Russell Stevenson
- Bennet van der Genugten
- Matt Winstead
May 1, 2009
Kenda Pro Crit Specialist, Chad Burdzilauskas, breaks nose on eve of team's first 2009 NRC Criterium! Chad had an unfortunate training accident that left him needing medical attention for a broken nose, and cannot start the grueling Sunny King Criterium tomorrow. Look for Chad to return on May 16, at the Wilmington Grand Prix!
April 25, 2009
It's Twilight time again! This weekend will mark the program's fifth attempt at Athens Twilight, which it won with Mark Hekman in 2007. Be sure to check out your favorite Kenda riders while joining the Athens insanity!
2009 Athens Twilight Roster:
- Marco Aledia
- Chad Burdzilauskas
- Rich Harper
- Ben Renkema
- Ty Stanfield
- Bennet van der Genugten
- Matt Winstead
April 20, 2009
Great team unity at the Battenkill, despite result. While the team was gunning for a podium finish at the Tour of the Battenkill, bad luck, crazy sectors and some unfortunate mechanical issues, induced by flying rocks kept the team at bay for now.
"Our result is irrelevant." states GM, Chad Thompson. "The team rode selflessly for each other. They were dominant at the front. The big guns . . . OUCH, BMC, TT1, Kelly Benefit and Bissell all respected the team and complimented our style and efforts. This is a huge testament to the mentality of our team, our unity and our refusal to leave another behind. The media will catch on, I assure you. And, the podiums should arrive very shortly!"
The team sacrificed for one another, making the key moves each day and flying the Kenda colors proudly. The team's first official event for 2009 has been marked a success!
April 5, 2009
4 states, 5 races, 2 wins and 5 podiums! Just another day at the office for Kenda Pro Cycling's riders, preparing for this season's NRC and UCI calendars, which start for us April 18, at the Tour of the Battenkill.
Congratulations to Ben Renkema and Remi McManus, who both captured their first victories of the 2009 season today! Scottie Weiss and Chad Burdzilauskas also made podium appearances in 3rd and 2nd, respectively, over the weekend.
Mar 17, 2009
Congratulations to the team's co-captain, Remi McManus, and his family. Mr. & Mrs. Remi McManus have received the newest addition to their family with the birth of their son, Riggins McManus. Congratulations!
Mar 9, 2009
2 races, 2 countries, 2 racers, 2 wins! Kenda Pro Cycling picked up another 2 podiums over the weekend, and they were both at the top step.
Marco Aledia won his first race of 2009 at the local and very hilly Gambier Road Race, in Gambier, OH on Saturday. Juarez, Mexico got to see the pin-stripes of KPC lap the field and take the victory at Premio Ciclista Chamizal, with Jaime Gandara earning top honors at the event.
Marco's next major stop will be Athens Twilight Criterium, in Athens, GA and Jaime's next race has yet to be announced.
Mar 5, 2009
Battenkill roster announced. KPC has opted for a well rounded roster for the Tour of the Battenkill, with all intentions of grabbing the prize away from the power-house teams competing in the event. A strong mix of power, climbers and sprinters will represent KPC on both days.
Tour of the Battenkill Roster:
- Andy Applegate
- Chad Burdzilauskas
- Jonathan Parrish
- Ben Renkema
- Jake Rytlewski
- Tyler Stanfield
- Timothy Swain
- Bennet van der Genugten
- Scottie Weiss
Mar 3, 2009
Camp is complete! And, what a week it was in Greenville, SC, home of team supplier, Hincapie Sports LLC. The Travelers Insurance Training Camp presented by LH Thomson spanned over 5 days and had all riders but 1 and all staff on hand. Joining the festivities were team sponsor representatives from Kenda, Travelers Insurance, Masi, AltoLab, TruTrainer, Asheville VeloSports, Wobble-Naught and 55nine (Paceline Products).
5 days saw all bike builds completed, all riders fitted to their road and TT machines, all riders undergo Dart-Fish pedal stroke analysis, 3 days of riding and 1 very cold and wet day of lead out training. Riders got rub downs, attended meetings daily, provided interview time for media and the team's physician, received all team issue products and participated in a muddy team building exercise of flag football.
Inferno is very proud, and honored at the program's current status and obvious potential for success. KPC wishes to thank each and everyone involved with our program, whether returning or new to the family.
February 20, 2009
Inferno welcomes new team sponsor, Kinetic by Kurt. Kinetic is the premier name in stationary training devices, with its flagship product being aptly named the Rock n' Roll trainer.
Kinetic has provided the team with a full compliment of Rock n' Roll trainers for bike fitting and stage race warm-ups. "We couldn't be more pleased!", states team manager, Chad Thompson, "This is the perfect compliment to our official trainer supplier, TruTrainer, who makes the best rollers on the planet!" The team is now supplied by both the best roller and stationary trainer manufacturers in the world. Welcome aboard.
February 7, 2009
Three races, three podiums! And we are not even ready yet! "We are a mid-west team." states team GM, Chad Thompson. "As such, most of our guys have not even trained outdoors in months. Most certainly are still in the base phase, as our schedule does not really start until the end of April."
February 7, 2009
Three races, three podiums! And we are not even ready yet! "We are a mid-west team." states team GM, Chad Thompson. "As such, most of our guys have not even trained outdoors in months. Most certainly are still in the base phase, as our schedule does not really start until the end of April."
This is good news. The excitement for the new program and passion for the sport has put Chad Burdzilauskas, Jonathan Parrish and Scottie Weiss on podiums across the country. Notably, each rider was by themselves in their respective events. They still turned it up against some of the countries top pros in the early season. Be sure to check the results page often for details.
January 4, 2009
Getting an overhaul. The current Inferno Racing, and now Kenda Pro Cycling presented by Spinergy web-site is getting a facelift! That's right. Stay tuned as MATTEO Studios and Edwin Hadi Photography change the face and dynamic of the pinstriped home page. The new site is tentatively set to re-launch in mid-February! Any suggestions? Please send comments via our "contact" link.
January 3, 2009
Pimpin' our rides! So many people to thank for our sweet machines, to be unveiled in February. Here are some sneak peeks and some shouts to persons who make these bikes a reality.
Tim Jackson, the MasiGuy. Credit - Tim Jackson
Well it all starts with our longest supporters, Kenda and Spinergy. Without Stefano Lumbaca and Jim Wannamaker of Kenda, this team would not be a UCI team this year. Chris McLaren of Spinergy spins the hottest wheels in the peloton, and 09 will see a collaboration with Wheeltags to make a limited team wheel. Of course, the MasiGuy (pictured above) has been the teams longest running frame supplier and voluntary publicist. If you look closely, you will see a part of our custom painted 09 Masi 3VC Team rigs.
Bert of AlphaQ testing out our new TT fork. Hot!
Toss in a large dose of SRAM Red (thank yous to Brian Billington and Alex Wassmann), Feather Brake calipers (thank you Ken Leybourne and Bob Barnett), Thomson goodies (compliments of longtime team advocate, David Parrett), Kore carbon bars (a shout to Lance for those). Bert and Ben supply AlphaQ and the newest addition to the machines, Look Carbon KeO pedals (thank you Ming Tan)!
There really are so many more companies and individuals to thank, but not enough room or time. This is just a quick peek and an even quicker thank you from Inferno.
