Team MTN-Qhubeka Appoints Brian Smith as General Manager

News & Results

07/29/2014| 0 comments
by Gerald Churchill
Fotoreporter Sirotti

Team MTN-Qhubeka Appoints Brian Smith as General Manager

Earlier today Team MTN-Qhubeka announced the appointment of Brian Smith as interim General Manager until the end of the year, with immediate effect.

With the recent addition of several sponsors and the continued growth of the team's organization, Mr. Smith has been presented with the task of preparing the team for the 2015 season, including the selection and hiring of several riders, staff and management as well as expanding the team's infrastructure. During his engagement, he will also be part of the crucial process which has been initiated to identify and appoint a full-time General Manager before the end of the year.

Smith has worked with Gerard Vroomen (known from Cervélo) during the setup of the successful Cervelo TestTeam and also fulfilled this role for Team Endura in the past. Smith's knowledge of riders and his experience in professional cycling as well as his involvement with several teams will assist Team MTN-Qhubeka on its path towards the top-tier of professional cycling.

"Brian and I have known each other nearly 20 years, since we were team mates in the late 90's racing in the USA. He often calls me to give advice and suggestions. He has a huge love and passion for cycling and enjoys the uniqueness of our team, with some young South African and African riders teaming up with international pros in support for the Qhubeka Foundation. With a big focus on La Vuelta a Espana in the next month it is fantastic to bring Brian into the team to look towards 2015 and getting the team fully prepared," Team Principal Douglas Ryder explained.

"It feels good to be back working with some good friends. Dougie (Douglas Ryder) is probably as passionate about cycling as i am and it feels right to be working alongside him again. Gerard (Vroomen) and myself have worked together well in the past. It's now a few years down the line and we are both older and wiser. Getting Africa on bikes is a great cause and I hope to help take this message to a global audience by gaining invitations to all the top events. I am looking forward to the challenges ahead and working with two of the best guys in cycling," Smith commented.

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