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08.08.2007/Astana: Training camp in the Swiss Alps, Dean and Backstedt join Slipstream
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Astana: Training camp in the Swiss Alps
Although the Astana Cycling Team is not participating in any official race this August, this does not mean that the team is
taking it easy. A training camp will take place from August 11th until August 24th at the Vallée de Conches, in the 'Haut
Valais' (SUI). Nineteen cyclists will participate, amongst them Andreas Klöden, Andrej Kashechkin, Paolo Savoldelli, the Kazakh
Champion Maxim Iglinskiy as well as the Swiss quartet composed of Gregory Rast, Steve Morabito, Thomas Frei and Michael Schär.
The schedule contains an intensive training programme, including the not always obvious exercise of a team time-trial,
as well as the conquest of several passes in the Alps. With the Grimsel, the Furka and the Nufenen nearby, the cyclists will
have plenty of choice for their training excursions. The four Sport Managers, headed by Mario Kummer, will coordinate the
exercises. Various medical and physiological tests will be performed to monitor and control each cyclist's progress as close
as possible. At the same occasion the new directives of the team will be presented to the members of the Astana Cycling Team.
On a commercial note, the car manufacturer Skoda has confirmed itspartnership with the Astana Cycling Team. Unlike other
suppliers, Skoda is willing to support a team that is fully committed to a new start.
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| Andrey Kashechin & Andreas Klöden: training camp in the Swiss Alps (picture: Cyclingheroes) |
Dean and Backstedt join Slipstream
Team Slipstream announced that they have signed Julian Dean for the 2008 season.
The Kiwi rider is the latest rider in a string of high-profile moves to joins the American squad, which is aiming for a Tour
de France wildcard next season.
"I can now officially let you all know that I'm up for a change of scenery next year," Dean revealed on his website, juliandean.co.nz.
"The 2008 season will see me heading to the ever-expanding American team, Slipstream, along with ex-teammates, David Zabriskie
and Christian Vande Velde. Also heading in the same direction is Dave Millar."
Liquigas rider Magnus Backstedt confirmed he will also join the US team in the 2008 season.
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