Oliver Evans joins H&R Block Pro Cycling Team for 2017
After 2016 season that showed lots of promise, Winnipeg native steps up to UCI Continental level
UCI Continental team H&R Block Pro Cycling have added Oliver Evans to their roster for the 2017 season. Racing for the Accent Inns Russ Hays powered by Champion Systems Cycling Team, Evans as a junior placed on the podium of Pro/1/2 elite races over the season demonstrating his ability to perform in top level competitions. Continuing their efforts to continue to develop Canadian riders, H&R Block have added the Winnipeg native as he enters his first season in the under-23 category.
RELATED:Ruby West fully focused on ‘cross as national title defense looms
“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to wear the same kit that many of my Canadian cycling idols have worn and ride with some of my old Team Manitoba mates again, said Evans. “Becoming a professional has been a longtime goal, I thank my current team for helping me get here and I look forward to riding with my new teammates and the challenges that the next season will bring.”
Evans 2016 campaign included a dominating performance at the Hayman Cycling Classic in B.C., a win at the Tour de Bloom hill climb in Washington state on his way to second place overall, third place overall in at Race the Ridge in Maple Ridge, B.C. and second overall at the Tour of Walla Walla an event in which former H&R Block riders Rob Britton and Jordan Cheyne have won. As a program whose mandate is to support young riders as the develop, the results Evans has achieved against elite riders demonstrates his readiness to take the next step in the sport.
RELATED: Steve Bauer joins BMC Racing as director of VIP services
H&R Block plan to add additional riders to the U23 roster with the goal of building the base to the long-term development of promising Canadian riders. “Based on Evans 2016 results, I feel that he will adapt really well,” said team owner Mark Ernsting. “He is winning races and this is an important trait that I look in a young rider. Winners like to continue to win and this is something I want all our riders in 2017 to embrace”
The team will continue to announce their roster for the 2017 season in the coming weeks.
