CYCLING

Bewley re-signs with Orica-GreenEdge for 2016

By Aaron S Lee

New Zealand Olympian Sam Bewley named to 25-man roster again for Australian WorldTour team.
 
NEW ORLEANS—Orica-GreenEdge has announced its 25-man roster for 2016, with seven new names in lieu of eight departing riders. One familiar name that remains is New Zealand’s Sam Bewley.

The 28-year-old Olympic team pursuit bronze medallist returns for his fifth season on the road with Orica-GreenEdge since the team’s debut four years ago. During that time, the North Island native played critical roles in team time trial placements, including first at this year’s Giro d’Italia and fourth at the world championships.

“Sam has matured very well in his time with us,” Orica-GreenEdge sports director Matt White told NZ Bike. “He has cemented his position in the team being extremely versatile for a big man.‎ His strength on the flat and ability to climb well makes him a valuable member in diverse groups throughout the season.
“He is also developing into one of the leaders of this very young team,” he continued. “Looking to fill the shoes of veterans like Mat Hayman and Svein Tuft once they call an end to their careers.”

But the 37-year-old Hayman (AUS) and 38-year-old Tuft (CAN) will not be calling it quits any time soon, as both re-signed with Australia’s first ever pro cycling team. 

Australian Simon Clarke and Dutchman Pieter Weening are the team’s most notable departures. The 29-year-old Clarke heads to Cannondale-Garmin, while the 34-year-old Weening signs on with Roompot Oranje Peloton (PCT).

Aside from Clarke and Weening, Orica-GreenEdge also loses Adam Blythe (GBR), Leigh Howard (AUS), Brett Lancaster (AUS), Cameron Meyer (AUS), Jens Mouris (NED), Ivan Santamorita (ITA). In their place, the team brings aboard Alex Edmondson (AUS), Jack Haig (AUS), Chris Juul-Jensen (DEN), Luka Mezgec (SLO), Ruben Plaza (ESP), Robert Power (AUS) and Amets Txurruka (ESP).

“We had a lot of contracts up at the conclusion of this year and as a result we have probably seen the most roster movement in the team’s history,” said White. “But after all is said and done, we are extremely pleased with the team we have put together and are excited for what the collective unit can produce next year.”

2016 ORICA-GreenEDGE Squad:

Michael Albasini, SUI, 34
Sam Bewley, NZL, 28
Esteban Chaves, COL, 25
Magnus Cort, DEN, 22
Mitch Docker, AUS, 29
Luke Durbridge, AUS, 24
Alexander Edmondson, AUS, 21*
Caleb Ewan, AUS, 21
Simon Gerrans, AUS, 35
Jack Haig, AUS, 22*
Mathew Hayman, AUS, 37
Michael Hepburn, AUS, 24
Damien Howson, AUS, 23
Daryl Impey, RSA, 30
Chris Juul-Jensen, DEN, 26*
Jens Keukeleire, BEL, 26
Michael Matthews, AUS, 25
Christian Meier, CAN, 30
Luka Mezgec, SLO, 27*
Ruben Plaza, ESP, 35*
Robert Power, AUS, 20*
Svein Tuft, CAN, 38
Amets Txurruka, ESP, 32*
Adam Yates, GBR, 23
Simon Yates, GBR, 23
*Denotes new signing

Aaron S. Lee is a cycling and triathlon columnist for Eurosport and a guest contributor to NZ Bike