October 18/07 12:47 pm - Reain Ready to Defend National `Cross Title

Posted by Editoress on 10/18/07
 

Reain Prepares to Defend National `Cross Title
Courtesy David Gazsi

Canadian cyclocross champion Greg Reain is currently getting ready to defend his title won in Nanaimo, B.C. last year, and is doing so with the generous support of a collection of new sponsors. Greg has chosen to adopt a different strategy in his build up to Nationals than in years past- namely the decision to remain in North America instead of his traditional stint in Europe in September and October. After a short break following his road season with Calyon-Litespeed, Greg kicked off his CX campaign at the Michigan Double-Cross weekend, taking 4th place in each of the two races, while having an opportunity to gauge his form against the likes of American CX star Jonathan Page and former Swiss Champion Michael Muller, among others.

Following some high-intensity training back home, including a win at the local OBC CX series, Greg packed his bags Thanksgiving weekend for Southampton, NY, to race against some of the best cyclocrossers in the world, including reigning World Champion Erwin Vervecken of Belgium, and the national champions of both the US and Germany. In what was undoubtedly the strongest professional field ever assembled in North America, Greg took two top-10s, finishing 8th on Saturday and improving to 7th on Sunday, showing his form is coming along nicely in preparation for Nationals on 21st of October in Kamloops.

Greg was also riding with some flash new gear this past weekend, while sporting the colours of the Ride with Rendall cycling club. RWR, founded by multi-time national track champion Glen Rendall, is providing financial support for Greg this 'cross season, through the National Championships in Kamloops, and for the rest of the season that will see Greg racing in the Verge New England series and other selected UCI races. In addition, Greg will be riding a Colnago cross frame courtesy of long-time RWR member Greg Christie of Christie's Ski and Cycle Works, Chelsea, Qc.

Also assisting Greg in the defense of his title will be BBB and Challenge Tires supplied by Great Western Bicycle Company. BBB, known as the Official Sunglasses supplier for Team QuickStep Innergetic and current world road champion Paolo Bettini, will be supplying Greg with chainrings and brake pads. Challenge Tires, sponsor of current World Cyclo Cross champion Edwin Vervecken, will be supplying Greg with Challenge Grifo tubulars. Greg is also equipped this year with Time shoes and pedals courtesy of Cycle Lambert, while his wheels will be provided by OGC and Ride with Rendall.

Greg would like to thank all of his sponsors and supporters throughout the Ottawa region, and is excited for the opportunity to defend his title in Kamloops this weekend.