September 29 - Lizzie Armitstead (pictured), one of the rising stars of British cycling and a major hope for success at the London 2012 Olympics, has signed to ride for the Cervélo Test Team next year.



The 20-year-old Yorkshirewoman, who won the young riders' classification at the recent Giro Donne as well as a world title in the team pursuit, has signed a two-year deal with the Swiss squad and will ride alongside British team-mate Emma Pooley.
 

The former Lotto-Belisol rider, who also became national under-23 road race champion this season, is already looking forward to next year with anticipation.
 

Armitstead said: "I wanted to be part of the best women's team in the world.
 

"When the opportunity to join the team came along, I couldn't turn it down.

"I am excited to race with the riders on the team and also to be able to use the equipment.

"My goal for 2010 is to continue my development and learn from the more experienced riders...and I would like to be a key member of a winning team."

Thomas Campana, the Cervélo Test Team manager, said: "Elizabeth is just 20 years old and already is a world champion track rider.

"She had an incredible track and road season this year.
 

"We saw her for the first time in the Giro Donne, where she won the jersey for best overall young rider, and usually the winners of these jerseys are the future champions.
 

"She has impressed us with her excellent climbing and sprinting abilities and her good race instincts.

"We are really delighted to have her on board for next year."


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