It's just been made official that the music megastar will continue his sponsorship of Team West Virginia/Bon Jovi. In 2004 the Mountain State team will compete in state, regional and NCS races. Says Team Director Steve Thaxton, "It's probable that we'll add one non-West Virginia pro who will make runs at national podiums."
Thaxton has played as Bon Jovi's personal trainer for the last 10 years. He regularly went on the road with the band and kept the superstar in tip-top shape. For three years now Jon has supported Steve Thaxton's MTB team. But it wasn't made public until 2003. In a press release from Team West Virginia/Bon Jovi, Steve adds that "Jon supports the team first and foremost because he knows of my incredible passion for mountain biking. Bon Jovi's support has grown each year. We've not only been able to race our competitive state circuit, but have also sent select team members to all NCS races."
In total the 12-member grassroots team collected 110 wins in 2003. Team West Virginia/Bon Jovi even sent three of its members to the World's. Junior Bryan Fawley and under-23 rider Nick Waite went to Lugano, Switzerland. Steve Thaxton himself competed in World Masters Championships in Bromont, Canada. Nick finished a great 24th, Bryan placed 42nd, and Steve a sound 20th in the 35-39 age group.
All members of Team West Virginia/Bon Jovi are very involved in the activism side of MTBing and are required to frequently take part in trail maintenance programs. Hopefully this will set a precedent for other teams to follow.
So far Team West Virginia/Bon Jovi sponsors read as: Cannondale, Ritchey, Kenda Tires, Worldwide Chiropractic and Sports Medicine, International Talent Booking of London, Maple Creative (Charleston, WV) and Charleston Bicycle Center. The team is still in the process of lining up other sponsors and will soon announce the full 2004 sponsorship and rider roster.
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