With Monday's start of the Tour of Missouri fast approaching, Team Columbia-HTC's eight riders for the week-long event are in top condition and prepared to continue the team's impressive 2009 season. 

Sports Director Tristan Hoffman previewed Columbia-HTC's goals, promising that all eight of the athletes will be on the hunt for victory. After winning three stages to date in the Vuelta a Espana this week, the men's team's 2009 victory talley stands at 75.

"We are bringing US Pro Champion George Hincapie to Missouri, so one of his goals is to win a stage wearing his new US Champion jersey," added Hoffman.

"Sure, it's exciting to be back in the Stars and Stripes, racing with my team in the United States," said Hincapie.  "It's a great honor and I am very motivated."

Hoffman added, "We also bring Mark Cavendish, the world's fastest sprinter, backed by a team of experienced, highly motivated riders and we have great expectations," commented Hoffman.  "There should be lots of opportunities for bunch sprints, and of course we will take full advantage."

Australian Time Trial Champion "Michael Rogers is eager and really well prepared.  He had a good showing in the Giro d'Italia and Eneco Tour, and is even stronger now," Hoffman said.  "And it's always something special for our team to race in the U.S., since our home base is here in California.  We every chance of getting some great results in Missouri."

Team Columbia-HTC for the Tour of Missouri:
Michael Barry (Can); Mark Cavendish (GB);  Bernhard Eisel (Aut); George Hincapie (USA); Craig Lewis (USA); Marco Pinotti (Ita); Michael Rogers (Aus); Kanstantsin Sivtsov (Byl)

Watch 2009 Tour of Missouri video highlights in the video section of Roadcycling.com at www.roadcycling.com/video . 2009 Tour of Missouri videos are available to Roadcycling.com readers worldwide starting Monday, September 7 after stage 1.