Rad Racing's Steve Fisher was awarded a scholarship by the organizers of the US Gran Prix of Cyclocross this week. The Lakewood, Washington resident was selected to receive the 2007 USGP/Clif Bar Junior Scholarship to participate in the 2008 UCI Cyclocross World Championships in Treviso, Italy, January 26-27.
"Steve Fisher is a very worthy recipient of the worlds grant from USGP and Clif Bar," said Geoff Proctor, USGP Technical Director and US National Team Coach, who leads the annual Euro 'Cross camp which Fisher just completed. Fisher took 24th in his first race in Laarne, 35th in the Hofstade World Cup, and 43rd in Loenhout before scoring 9th place in the GP Sven Nys.
Fisher's domestic results were a major factor in his receiving the prize. "Steve comes from a great program in Rad Racing with a great coach (Dale Knapp) and director (Jim Brown)," Proctor said. "Steve repeatedly rode with the front group of elite juniors this year and ultimately finished second to USGP and National Champ Luke Keough. In fact, Fisher is the only rider to beat Keough at a national series race this year taking the first day of the Portland USGP," added Proctor.
"I would like to thank both Clif Bar and the USGP of Cyclo-cross for the opportunity that they have given me," said Fisher. "The USGP has been an amazing way to bring all of the top US riders together on a regular basis. I think that it has been pushing everyone to keep improving and is the best possible way to prepare for European competition. They are helping to pave the way for the future of American cyclo-cross."
"One key component of TEAM CLIF BAR's Sustainable Sports program is the focus on supporting junior athlete development efforts," stated Dylan Seguin, manager of the TEAM CLIF BAR program. "The scholarship is a great addition that will allow Steve to compete at Worlds. The scholarship, combined with the CLIF BAR Kids' Clinics, really puts a nice focus on the importance of supporting the young athletes."
