Norco Factory Racing downhill squad announces roster

West-Vancouver native Joe Smith and Henry Fitzgerald of the UK join for 2017

Philippe Tremblay January 15, 2017

Port Coquitlam, B.C. based downhill squad Norco Factory Racing have added Joe Smith and Henry Fitzgerald to the 2017 roster. The pair join returning rider Sam Blenkinsop. The three-man team will race the UCI World Cup downhill circuit, the Crankworx series and some Enduro World Series events.

Sam Blenkinsop enters 2017 for a third season with Norco Factory Racing. As four-time New Zealand national champion, Blenkinsop will be looking to add to his palmares which already includes podium finishes at nine World Cups, two world championships, 11 Crankworx events and three EWS races.

“I’m looking forward to working with Norco Factory Racing again for the 2017 – 2018 season, and building on our past two years together,” said Blenkinsop. “With new teammates and some new and exciting challenges for the team…I’m stoked!”

West-Vancouver native Henry Fitzgerald joins Norco Factory Racing for his first season at the elite level. As a junior, Fitzgerald took seventh at the Mont-Sainte-Anne World Cup, eighth at the Vallnord World Cup, and third in the Crankworx Whistler Canadian Open DH.

“Joining the Norco factory team is an unreal opportunity for me,” Fitzgerald said. “The team is the full package with an exciting bike, outstanding support, and an awesome crew. I can’t wait to get stuck into my first year of Elite with such a great team to learn from.”

Blenkinsop was excited about the teams dynamic and the addition of the Canadian youngster. “This past fall I had a chance to shred some laps with Henry in Whistle,” he said. “Not only was his speed good…the guy just loves to ride! He reminded me of myself when I was his age. I think we’ll help each other this year.”

Joe Smith comes over to Norco after racing with CRC Paypal since 2011. With top-10 World Cup and EWS finishes in 2016, the 2015 British downhill series overall title, second at th 2015 Redbull Hardline, the native of Mid Wales, UK is a proven asset. He’s also been Welsh national downhill champion nine times.

“I’m excited for a fresh start in 2017 with Norco Factory Racing,” explained Smith. “I’ve looked up to Blenki since I started racing, and can’t wait to join him on the team. With Todd’s reputation as a trainer and manager, I think it’s going to be a good year.”

The racers also play an important role in the Norco Race Development program and help the company during the design and testing of new Norco bikes.