Team Group Health has been named USA Cycling's 2005 Women's Club of the Year for the second time in a row - the team also won the award for its 2004 season. Team Group Health was one of nine teams from across the U.S. to be recognised for their outstanding competitive results and contributions to the greater cycling community.
"We are thrilled to receive this award for the second time, and excited about the opportunity we have to grow the sport in the Pacific Northwest," said Team Group Health President Dana Robertson Halter. "We are particularly delighted that we have been able to help Group Health Cooperative to raise awareness of the tremendous health benefits of cycling. Last season, we had some terrific results and we supported a wide range of cycling-related community events."
In 2005, Team Group Health won the Washington State Best All Around Road team award and 15 state championship medals, achieved 230 top-ten finishes, raised money for important causes such as Multiple Sclerosis, mentored new riders, and organised and supported local cycling events. Team Group Health is looking to build on this foundation in 2006 - the mountain bike and road racing seasons begin in the next two weeks, and the outfit will support and participate in Group Health Cooperative-sponsored events throughout the year, including the Seattle International Bicycle Expo, the "Chilly Hilly" bicycle ride and the Seattle-to-Portland and Flying Wheels rides.
Team Group Health's focus on developing new women riders led to tremendous growth in 2005: the roster now includes over 100 women, ranging in age from 15 to 55, with team members competing in all cycling disciplines - road, cyclocross, track and mountain bike.
