Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio has renewed her contract with the Cervélo Bigla Pro Cycling Team which will see her continuing in a leadership role into 2017.
The South African has been a member of the team since 2015, winning ten individual races in that time along with numerous other podium positions. Despite her impressive results, Moolman-Pasio says it’s the team’s focus beyond just winning that made it an easy decision to continue.
“I really like what the team stands for and the culture we have cultivated within the team. It’s not just about winning bike races but it’s about winning in life. That sounds like a cliché but it’s true. A lot of thought is given to the composition of the team and the characters involved. I have said many times, we’re a small team with big hearts and it’s very evident in how we function as a team and respond to one another,” the 30-year-old said.
Team Manager, Thomas Campana explains how the team has reinforced its focus on nurturing home-grown talent within the squad as opposed to attracting big names.
“Ashleigh is already one of the best riders in the world but her development continues to grow. She is one of the best time trailists and stage racers in the world. The next step we have identified is to develop her skills for the one day races,” Campana said.
“We have had a cultural change from last year to this year where we’ve decided against getting big-name riders but instead to nurture talent. We believe the best is yet to come from Ashleigh which is scary when you see how much she has achieved already. She will play a very important role in mentoring the younger riders as we work towards making the younger group the stars of the future.”
The team will make some exciting announcements in the coming weeks as it continues to develop some of the best young riders in the sport.
“The focus isn’t about acquiring the biggest names but its about taking each individual in the team and helping them become the best that they can possibly be. Thomas has a way of getting the best out of people and that’s why I’ve decided to stay on the team. We have some exciting prospects on the way,” Moolman-Pasio concluded.
The South African will next line up in this weekend’s Premondiale Giro Toscana Int. Femminile – Memorial Michela Fanini taking place from 9 – 11 September.
Well deserved Ashleigh. I hope the best is still to come. Proudly S.A.