SunSport Velo Women’s Race Team have a brand new sponsor for the 2017 season in the form of Brother UK.

With the help of the information, communication and technology services provider, the team is able to boost its roster to a squad of 12 riders. Through the team, the management aim to raise the profile of women’s cycling in the UK – with the riders competing on the road, track and in cyclocross. They’ll aim to target elite races in the UK, and build a foreign programme including a European stage race.

The race team is a collaboration between SunSport Coaching and Velo Espresso. Based in Manchester, the 2016 roster consisted of young female riders – all of whom are in full time education or employment. Their aim is to develop and support rising talent, and eventually build a professional women’s cycling team.

The Matrix Fitness GP UK series was a major target for the team over 2016, and they finished sixth of eleven teams in a competitive field which was won overall by 2016 UCI Pro team, Podium Ambition. 

The team already has support from Pactimo clothing, Orro bikes and Sunsport Coaching and aims to provide its riders with “360 degree support” which includes equipment and rides, nutrition, coaching, skills, performance and “opportunities for success at a national level”.

Brother UK have formed a number of cycling partnerships and the global provider of specialist solutions provided  official results, printing and imaging for the the Pearl Izumi Tour Series, Aviva Women’s Tour and Tour of Britain this year.

Speaking on the announcement Stuart Percival, Director and Head Coach at SunSport Velo comments: “We are looking forward to working alongside Brother UK in the 2017 cycling season.  We have a super enthusiastic and experienced team so we feel we can also add value to Brother Cycling over the coming months and vice versa.”

Phil Jones MBE, Managing Director of Brother UK, added: “Last year saw the team secure some impressive accolades throughout the season. Its ambitions for the 2017 season are to be admired and we’re delighted to be able to support them in their drive.  The partnership reflects a portfolio of sponsorships the business has invested in, backing the domestic sport at all levels. It fits perfectly with our own business ethos which is all about teamwork, partnership and results.”

Keep up to date with the team via the Facebook page, here.