Argos-Shimano has announced the signing of young Americans Lawson Craddock and Chad Haga for 2014, with both riders being given two-year contracts. Craddock (pictured) has spent the last three seasons at the Bontrager Cycling Team - previously Trek-Livestrong - and, as one of the most exciting talents in American cycling, taking the best young riders’ jersey at the Amgen Tour of California, and is currently fifth overall in the USA Pro Challenge.
Haga also finished the Amgen Tour of California strongly, in tenth place overall, while both riders cite the opportunity to improve as riders as a key reason for choosing the Dutch ProTeam.
“Development was the primary factor in my decision to join Team Argos-Shimano,” said Craddock. “For me to continue to progress as a rider, the immediate focus needs to be on my development, not necessarily on my results. I am confident that Team Argos-Shimano has the plan, infrastructure and team philosophy to help me achieve my goals as a cyclist.
“I look forward to joining my fellow teammates at Team Argos-Shimano and accomplishing not only my personal objectives but our team’s ambitions in 2014 and beyond,” he added.
Currently riding for Team Optum p/b Kelly Benefit Strategies, Haga’s victories in 2013 include the time trial stage of the Tour of Elk Grove, where he finished 11th overall.
“I’m a GC rider, as I can climb and time trial well,” he said. “On Team Argos-Shimano I hope to develop myself as a GC rider and a domestique in mountainous races.
“I chose Team Argos-Shimano because of their support structure. I really believe that they can help me become a better rider as they have done with many young riders, so that I can reach my full potential. I also like the way the team races. It appears to be a great team environment in which all the riders are friends as well, which results in great teamwork. I especially appreciate the team’s commitment to clean racing.”
Preparing for Argos-Shimano’s second season as a first division UCI ProTeam, general manager Iwan Spekenbrink welcomes his two new American riders.
“We are delighted that these two talented riders have chosen to be part of our team,” he said. “We are looking forward to working with them. To help them grow not only as riders but also as individuals, we will give them access to our coaching staff, innovation and science experts, and the best training conditions.”