News: Trek signs Tracy Moseley to World Cup team

Tracy Moseley on her way to victory at the '08 Fort Williams World Cup DH. Colin Meagher

UK gravity racer Tracy Moseley has been signed to Trek’s 2009 World Cup team, filling the final roster spot, which had been reserved for a female gravity rider, Trek announced.

The signing completes a steady team-building process that race fans worldwide have been following closely since Trek and its team director Martin Whiteley began assembling next year’s World Cup squad. First, Liam Killeen of the UK and the Flueckiger brothers from Switzerland were signed to the XC team, then came the thunderbolt announcement last month that Justin Leov had left Yeti to join Andrew Neethling on the gravity side of the equation. As both Trek and Whiteley make decisions with a view towards the top of the podium, it was clear that only a genuine contender would be added to the already solid lineup.

"I am really excited to have this great opportunity to ride on a new exciting bike from 2009, and with a great team around me to give me all the support I'll need to further improve,” said the 29-year-old Moseley. “I'm also really happy to have two great guys to ride with, as I believe that is really important for my ongoing development as a racer.”

Having been released by Kona only five days ago, Moseley wasted no time signing up for her new ride, the crown jewel in Trek’s long-travel, full-suspension lineup – the Session 88. And having notched up 10 World Cup wins over her six-year World Cup career – a feat that only five downhill racers have accomplished – Moseley is exactly the kind of rider that Trek and Whiteley needed.

"It's a thrill for us to be able to announce Tracy in our lineup,” said Whiteley. “We've been excited about the idea of having three DH riders, and even more so to be back in the game of women's DH racing. Tracy showed everyone what she can do on the physically demanding and pedaling courses like Fort William and Canberra this past season, and looking at 2009's venues, Tracy will be well-positioned for a great season."

Michael Browne, Trek’s Mountain Bike Brand Manager, agrees: "Trek is extremely happy to have Tracy Moseley join the ranks of the DH roster. Her world-class performances and professional manner are a perfect match to the existing roster, one which Trek is excited to expand beyond a men's-only team.”

Co-sponsors for the team are pending.