The 2011 cycling season has started well for Team Manx Telecom as the club heads into the third year of its sponsorship deal with the telecommunications company. Manx Telecom began sponsoring the Manx Road Club in 2008 and in the three years, the distinctive blue and white jerseys have become a familiar sight on the road and the winner’s podium. Christian Varley and Aaron Livsey finished first and second in the Manx Viking Wheelers handicap race at Jurby in March and Varley also won the Tour of the Middle - the opening race in the 2011 Isle of Man Road Race Series. Manx Telecom’s new Director of Marketing David Smith met some of the team when they visited the company’s headquarters at the Isle of Man Business Park. David, who is a keen runner and cyclist, was presented with a Team Manx Telecom jersey by Manx Road Club Chairman Bill Ward. After thanking Bill and the club for the gift, David commented: “The Isle of Man has a long history of success in cycling, but the current generation of riders are reaching new heights at international level. I’ve been delighted to learn of the success of Team Manx Telecom’s riders and wish all of the club’s members another successful season, whether they are competing for international honours or aiming to beat their own personal targets in local races.” Team Manx Telecom continues to be a springboard to international success with a growing list of elite riders. The club has some distinguished members including pro riders Mark Cavendish (HTC-Highroad); Peter Kennaugh (Team Sky) and Jonny Bellis (Saxo Bank). The club’s connections with cycling champions even extends to the Vitesse and Pro Vision branded team clothing which is supplied by double British pro road champion Steve Joughin. Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Mark Christian competed regularly for the club before being selected for the Great Britain Olympic Academy squad. Tim Kennaugh and Chris Whorrall were also selected for the GB Academy and this season both are riding for the MG.K VIS-Norda-Whistle team in Italy. Chris Nicholson and Tom Black have been racing in Belgium in the hope of breaking into the pro ranks. Team Manx Telecom also boasts a number of riders who are part of the Team Isle of Man - Microgaming national squad including Aaron Livsey, James Smettem, Tom Black, Chris Nicholson and Jonathan Cregeen. - ENDS -