At the headquarters in Adro, Claudio Corti is working hard – as usual – to set up a strong season with his combative Colombian outfit. In 2013, the team will be named only “Colombia”, to underline the tight bonds between the Escarabajos and the Country that backed and promoted their exciting adventure.
The project for the upcoming season is taking shape, and Corti is satisfied with the composition. “The most of it has already been made. The technical staff – Valerio Tebaldi, Oscar Pellicioli and Oliverio Rincon – has been confirmed. We strengthened our support team – both mechanics and masseurs – adding new experienced and valuable professionals to the ones we confirmed from 2012. Our new bike supplier will be announced in the next few days. The first training camp will be held in Colombia, at a 2.500 altitude in Zipaquirà, near Bogotà, from December 5th to 14th. During the camp, we will present the new jersey which will be similar to the 2012 one that was so well liked. Black will be the dominating color again, but there will also be an interesting novelty. In addition, the Centro de Alto Rendimiento in Bogota will be available to the team for physical assessment tests on all the riders.”
The 2013 debut has already been scheduled on February 2nd. The staff is working to finalize the roster that will feature 18 to 20 riders. 12 confirmed athletes (including Duarte, Chaves and Atapuma) will be joined by more promising riders. “It is not a mystery – Corti said – that our first season was a learning curve, but we still managed to enjoy some satisfaction by racing great races, significantly improving our athletes’ skills and delivering some important and spectacular wins. I think we will work our way to deserve a wild card for the Giro d’Italia or the Tour de France: either way, I am sure we will bring a great show.”
