Two days after it was announced that Annemiek van Vleuten would join the squad, the Bigla Cycling team has today confirmed that the American Shelley Olds will also be part of the setup in 2015.
The 33 year old took two stages, the overall classification and the points competition in Premondiale Giro Toscana Int. Femminile last week, adding to her wins earlier this year in the GP Comune di Cornaredo and the Winston Salem Cycling Classic.
Her signing is part of a general fortification of the team under the new management of Thomas Campana.
“I will race for the Bigla Cycling team next year because I believe that it will be an excellent project with the highest standards,” said Olds, who will have a role as one of the team’s main sprinters. “With great riders, management and staff, I am convinced that we will be a world class team. I am also honoured to represent the Bigla company, who has supported women’s cycling for many years.”
Campana sees Olds as playing an important role within the team, not least in motivating other riders via her interaction with them and also her results.
“Shelley is a consistent race winner and regularly finishes on the podium,” he said. “We believe with the right kind of support, she can convert more of the podium finishes into victories. She also brings a great positive attitude to an environment, which goes a long way in a team, especially during stage races.”
The signings of Olds and van Vleuten are expected to be followed soon by more roster announcements.
Olds has set some clear goals for herself, including in two of the biggest events.
“My goal for the next two years will be to continue to be competitive at the top of the sport and prepare for the Olympic Games in 2016,” she said. “My primary goal for the 2015 season will be the World Championships in my home country.”
