We’ve already run stories on how Specialized, Animal and Giant are concentrating less on pro racing and more on marathon, festival and 24hr events, now Volvo-Cannondale are also including what they call “more community outreach.” Meanwhile Gary Fisher look to be preparing to continue their previous success on the circuit.

Volvo-Cannondale PR director Al Kreuger says; “The team will have an expanded focus on all levels of mountain biking with U.S. and European grassroots festival participation and 24-hour racing at events such as Roc D’Azur, Sea Otter Classic, 24 Hours of Adrenaline and 24 Hours of Moab”. The planned “outreach programme” mirrors a similar successful scheme that Volvo runs with Salomon skis.

Meanwhile Subaru US have renewed their sponsorship agreement with Gary Fisher’s Elite NORBA (American national championships) team extending it till 2005. Alongside sister team Trek, Gary Fisher have one of the most successful teams on the circuit including many promising junior riders. Although the official press release centres on racing and shared demographics of Subaru / Fisher buyers, it’s worth noting that Fisher and Trek riders have been some of the most prominent teams in US 24 hr and festival events. They also continue to sponsor the ambassador roles of double Olympic champion Paolo Pezzo, and Mr Gary Fisher himself, who raced at the 2001 Red Bull 24hr event over here.

The more we hear of teams plans for 2002, the more it looks like presence at fun mass participation events is gaining precedence over podium positions.