Preston and Blackburn-based car dealership Bowker BMW has secured the vehicle sponsorship of North West-based cycling team Herbalife Wheelbase. They’ll be supplying a 5-Series Touring and a BMW X1 for use as support vehicles.
Team captain Stuart Reid led by example last season, with victories at the Leazes Criterium and in Otley, and a second place in the Bob Swailes Memorial road race. This season Stuart leads an expanded line-up in the Premier Calendar and Elite Criterium series races. The five-man junior squad includes current North West junior champion Johnny Knox.
Team Herbalife Wheelbase team director said Geoff Newcombe said,
“We can have anything up to 14 riders. And that can mean a lot of kit. We’re putting as many bikes, bags and bodies as possible in the BMW 5-series estate which will remain the main vehicle. The convoy lines up behind the riders and we’re there as back up to help with spare wheels and any race issues that may arise.
“Team Herbalife Wheelbase started as a development team. Fellow director Neil Taylor and I saw a lot of local lads who needed some support but hadn’t come from racing backgrounds. And it was basically a case of starting from the beginning – giving them some guidance where we could.
“Last year we looked after a few riders with their equipment and had a good year. We ended up 22nd nationally and 4th in the North West. The season has already started strongly. Our national ranking has improved and we hope to break in the top 3 in the North West.”
For Bowker BMW managing director Tom Fox said,
“Sports sponsorships play an important role in the dealerships in Preston and Blackburn. We seek out local teams and individuals that demonstrate skill and an ability to make a real impact in their chosen field. Team Herbalife Wheelbase ticks all the boxes. We’re happy to help and hope our support will help them achieve their ambitious targets for the season.”
ENDS
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