2023 TEAM RUMORS

sspomer
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1/10/2023 9:04am Edited Date/Time 1/10/2023 9:07am

Mark Wallace Named to Norco Factory Team
January 10, 2023 – Port Coquitlam, BC\

Norco Bicycles has signed Mark Wallace to its Factory Team program for the 2023 race season, and beyond.

With a Norco Factory Team (NFT) 2023 race schedule targeting the UCI World Cup series and World Championships, the decision to partner with the talented Duncan, BC rider was an easy one based on his years of consistent results, the goals he has set for his future, and who he is, both on and off the track.

“When I hear or have ever heard the name Mark Wallace, I think ‘Professional’. He’s been the consummate Canadian throughout his career, but the second he rolls into the start gate, its game on,” said VP of Marketing Peter Falk.

“Mark has worked with some of the best in the business and I’m really excited to see what we can accomplish together.”
The announcement also positions the Norco Factory Team as a proudly All-Canadian squad taking on the World Cup, each with roots in the Backwoods of BC.

5-sckdNY

Wallace joins 2022 Junior World Cup Overall and Canadian National Champion Gracey Hemstreet in her first Senior year, and rising star Lucas Cruz following his best year of international and domestic racing to date.

“Everyone on the team has been so welcoming and I know they are a lot of fun to hang out with! I’m looking forward to getting into some racing with the crew and getting to know them better!” said Wallace.

“I’ve been lucky enough to be around some very knowledgeable people throughout my career and I’m hoping I can pass some of that along to Lucas and Gracey.”

Coming off a 21st Overall in the World Cup last year, including a 10th place and three Top 20 finishes, Wallace is excited to continue his legacy of success, and help develop the next generation of DH technology with the legendary Canadian brand.

“I’m thrilled to be riding for the brand! I grew up riding Norcos, so it’s cool to be back! The personalities on the team create a great environment to perform and with strong partners supporting us, we have everything we
need!  Norco is also dedicated to creating a strong race program which is really motivating!” he added.

Additional announcements regarding team co-sponsors, race schedules and other details will be made available as the Norco Factory Team heads into an exciting 2023 season.

 

17
bizutch
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1/10/2023 9:15am
jimmypop wrote:
Bizutch is so old his old man stories are now 1/3 truth, 1/3 exaggeration, and 1/3 geriatric fever dream. The only thing missing from his stories...

Bizutch is so old his old man stories are now 1/3 truth, 1/3 exaggeration, and 1/3 geriatric fever dream.

The only thing missing from his stories about racing Mt. Snow NORBAs in the 90s is the whole class cheering in the end.

Out here acting as if he was the only one who showed up at these events when the sport was at its biggest and busiest. I think kids today would refer to this as "cap".

That said, he's right about downhillers crossing into moto. Bizutch is more likely to agree with another internet poster than for a mountain biker to ever qualify for a main again.

You're so right about the pinnacle of the sport back then.  I tried to find Doug Henry's result vs finish time (because when I'm being semi-factual, I try to spot the source) and couldn't find the right result.

What I did find was the 2022 Mt. Snow National.  There were SEVENTY EIGHT racers in Vet Ex 30-34 year old group.  DH entry list was huge in every category.  That age group actually beat the younger age groups every time that season in Expert.  I just remember all the old dudes had been racing for so long and just had more race craft and better set up bikes than all the new kids coming into the sport who were buying stuff and trying to figure it out.
 

Raced my 3rd DH in 3 weeks straight on a broken wrist in agony loving every second.

Bet you're in this results sheet somewhere
http://autobus.cyclingnews.com/mtb/?id=2002/aug02/NORBAmtsnow02/Downhill

1
7
Mike_Tarry_775
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1/10/2023 9:31am
sspomer wrote:
Mark Wallace Named to Norco Factory Team January 10, 2023 – Port Coquitlam, BC\ Norco Bicycles has signed Mark Wallace to its Factory Team program for...

Mark Wallace Named to Norco Factory Team
January 10, 2023 – Port Coquitlam, BC\

Norco Bicycles has signed Mark Wallace to its Factory Team program for the 2023 race season, and beyond.

With a Norco Factory Team (NFT) 2023 race schedule targeting the UCI World Cup series and World Championships, the decision to partner with the talented Duncan, BC rider was an easy one based on his years of consistent results, the goals he has set for his future, and who he is, both on and off the track.

“When I hear or have ever heard the name Mark Wallace, I think ‘Professional’. He’s been the consummate Canadian throughout his career, but the second he rolls into the start gate, its game on,” said VP of Marketing Peter Falk.

“Mark has worked with some of the best in the business and I’m really excited to see what we can accomplish together.”
The announcement also positions the Norco Factory Team as a proudly All-Canadian squad taking on the World Cup, each with roots in the Backwoods of BC.

5-sckdNY

Wallace joins 2022 Junior World Cup Overall and Canadian National Champion Gracey Hemstreet in her first Senior year, and rising star Lucas Cruz following his best year of international and domestic racing to date.

“Everyone on the team has been so welcoming and I know they are a lot of fun to hang out with! I’m looking forward to getting into some racing with the crew and getting to know them better!” said Wallace.

“I’ve been lucky enough to be around some very knowledgeable people throughout my career and I’m hoping I can pass some of that along to Lucas and Gracey.”

Coming off a 21st Overall in the World Cup last year, including a 10th place and three Top 20 finishes, Wallace is excited to continue his legacy of success, and help develop the next generation of DH technology with the legendary Canadian brand.

“I’m thrilled to be riding for the brand! I grew up riding Norcos, so it’s cool to be back! The personalities on the team create a great environment to perform and with strong partners supporting us, we have everything we
need!  Norco is also dedicated to creating a strong race program which is really motivating!” he added.

Additional announcements regarding team co-sponsors, race schedules and other details will be made available as the Norco Factory Team heads into an exciting 2023 season.

 

Well got one right this season!!!

5
dylanjp006
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1/10/2023 9:39am

Well got one right this season!!!

Taking a good guess that blending will take his spot on canyon 

1
MikkoN
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1/10/2023 10:44am

Was here rumor that Norco is shutting down racing program and thats why Blenky is out…🤷🏻‍♂️

2
Altitude
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1/10/2023 10:47am
metadave wrote:

Just saw this. Definitely sounds like it but could just be a thanks as well similar to Remy's thanks to Propane. We shall see. 

krabo83 wrote:

well canyon is running sram/RS and TLD Wink

And SC free agents generally use Sram/RS and Fox clothing...

1
sethimus
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1/10/2023 12:09pm
jimmypop wrote:
Bizutch is so old his old man stories are now 1/3 truth, 1/3 exaggeration, and 1/3 geriatric fever dream. The only thing missing from his stories...

Bizutch is so old his old man stories are now 1/3 truth, 1/3 exaggeration, and 1/3 geriatric fever dream.

The only thing missing from his stories about racing Mt. Snow NORBAs in the 90s is the whole class cheering in the end.

Out here acting as if he was the only one who showed up at these events when the sport was at its biggest and busiest. I think kids today would refer to this as "cap".

That said, he's right about downhillers crossing into moto. Bizutch is more likely to agree with another internet poster than for a mountain biker to ever qualify for a main again.

bizutch wrote:
You're so right about the pinnacle of the sport back then.  I tried to find Doug Henry's result vs finish time (because when I'm being semi-factual...

You're so right about the pinnacle of the sport back then.  I tried to find Doug Henry's result vs finish time (because when I'm being semi-factual, I try to spot the source) and couldn't find the right result.

What I did find was the 2022 Mt. Snow National.  There were SEVENTY EIGHT racers in Vet Ex 30-34 year old group.  DH entry list was huge in every category.  That age group actually beat the younger age groups every time that season in Expert.  I just remember all the old dudes had been racing for so long and just had more race craft and better set up bikes than all the new kids coming into the sport who were buying stuff and trying to figure it out.
 

Raced my 3rd DH in 3 weeks straight on a broken wrist in agony loving every second.

Bet you're in this results sheet somewhere
http://autobus.cyclingnews.com/mtb/?id=2002/aug02/NORBAmtsnow02/Downhill

image

28
2
jimmypop
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1/10/2023 12:26pm
jimmypop wrote:
Bizutch is so old his old man stories are now 1/3 truth, 1/3 exaggeration, and 1/3 geriatric fever dream. The only thing missing from his stories...

Bizutch is so old his old man stories are now 1/3 truth, 1/3 exaggeration, and 1/3 geriatric fever dream.

The only thing missing from his stories about racing Mt. Snow NORBAs in the 90s is the whole class cheering in the end.

Out here acting as if he was the only one who showed up at these events when the sport was at its biggest and busiest. I think kids today would refer to this as "cap".

That said, he's right about downhillers crossing into moto. Bizutch is more likely to agree with another internet poster than for a mountain biker to ever qualify for a main again.

bizutch wrote:
You're so right about the pinnacle of the sport back then.  I tried to find Doug Henry's result vs finish time (because when I'm being semi-factual...

You're so right about the pinnacle of the sport back then.  I tried to find Doug Henry's result vs finish time (because when I'm being semi-factual, I try to spot the source) and couldn't find the right result.

What I did find was the 2022 Mt. Snow National.  There were SEVENTY EIGHT racers in Vet Ex 30-34 year old group.  DH entry list was huge in every category.  That age group actually beat the younger age groups every time that season in Expert.  I just remember all the old dudes had been racing for so long and just had more race craft and better set up bikes than all the new kids coming into the sport who were buying stuff and trying to figure it out.
 

Raced my 3rd DH in 3 weeks straight on a broken wrist in agony loving every second.

Bet you're in this results sheet somewhere
http://autobus.cyclingnews.com/mtb/?id=2002/aug02/NORBAmtsnow02/Downhill

Oh, I'm there alright - as a DNF. Different age group. That course was rough AF.

I did better in the mid-90s as a junior, but I wasn't a cracker jack by any means. But man, those old NORBA/WC events were just great times. So many people, huge pits, so many shenanigans.

I can't believe the number of racers. And going through those names is a trip down memory lane for sure. RIP DavidK.

3
1
ak_trnsplnt
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1/10/2023 1:02pm
jimmypop wrote:
Bizutch is so old his old man stories are now 1/3 truth, 1/3 exaggeration, and 1/3 geriatric fever dream. The only thing missing from his stories...

Bizutch is so old his old man stories are now 1/3 truth, 1/3 exaggeration, and 1/3 geriatric fever dream.

The only thing missing from his stories about racing Mt. Snow NORBAs in the 90s is the whole class cheering in the end.

Out here acting as if he was the only one who showed up at these events when the sport was at its biggest and busiest. I think kids today would refer to this as "cap".

That said, he's right about downhillers crossing into moto. Bizutch is more likely to agree with another internet poster than for a mountain biker to ever qualify for a main again.

bizutch wrote:
You're so right about the pinnacle of the sport back then.  I tried to find Doug Henry's result vs finish time (because when I'm being semi-factual...

You're so right about the pinnacle of the sport back then.  I tried to find Doug Henry's result vs finish time (because when I'm being semi-factual, I try to spot the source) and couldn't find the right result.

What I did find was the 2022 Mt. Snow National.  There were SEVENTY EIGHT racers in Vet Ex 30-34 year old group.  DH entry list was huge in every category.  That age group actually beat the younger age groups every time that season in Expert.  I just remember all the old dudes had been racing for so long and just had more race craft and better set up bikes than all the new kids coming into the sport who were buying stuff and trying to figure it out.
 

Raced my 3rd DH in 3 weeks straight on a broken wrist in agony loving every second.

Bet you're in this results sheet somewhere
http://autobus.cyclingnews.com/mtb/?id=2002/aug02/NORBAmtsnow02/Downhill

jimmypop wrote:
Oh, I'm there alright - as a DNF. Different age group. That course was rough AF. I did better in the mid-90s as a junior, but...

Oh, I'm there alright - as a DNF. Different age group. That course was rough AF.

I did better in the mid-90s as a junior, but I wasn't a cracker jack by any means. But man, those old NORBA/WC events were just great times. So many people, huge pits, so many shenanigans.

I can't believe the number of racers. And going through those names is a trip down memory lane for sure. RIP DavidK.

Blame it on the dying cries of rumor season or the agitation of having to wait for the big announcements to come but this long time lurker and fellow old guy suggests we take the nostalgia to the newly created Get off my lawn! forum https://www.vitalmtb.com/forums/hub/get-my-lawn and leave the team rumors free from the “remember when everything was cooler than it is now” back and forth. 

14
JoseMPM
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1/10/2023 2:35pm

In case it gets deleted, what the actual f??? It‘s not like SC don‘t have ebikes?

 

2200D583-0349-417F-BAAF-28AF651FA571

 

 
 

 

DubC
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1/10/2023 3:12pm

Are you saying Rob Roskopp will be racing for Unno in the Vet Pro E Enduro class? When Pon Holdings bought SCB, I thought Rob Roskopp took a corporate job with Pon? Maybe not or maybe he did and no longer works for them. Or maybe PON HOLDINGS bought Unno, too!! #M&Arumors #boughtoneuptoo

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stoic_machine
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1/10/2023 3:56pm

Rumour has it we are announcing Mark Wallace has joined the Norco Factory Team in 3, 2, 1... 

Anyone here with a Norco insider... This is also your subtle reminder that they are watching the forums lol.

 

4
PisgahGnar
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1/10/2023 5:34pm Edited Date/Time 1/10/2023 5:46pm
JoseMPM wrote:
In case it gets deleted, what the actual f??? It‘s not like SC don‘t have ebikes?                  

In case it gets deleted, what the actual f??? It‘s not like SC don‘t have ebikes?

 

2200D583-0349-417F-BAAF-28AF651FA571

 

 
 

 

The other site confirmed he is out as CEO.  No details but they got inside confirmation that Rob has left Santa Cruz. 
 

interesting comment from Rob

54B2DA61-5913-441E-8B40-275AEAC485A6

 

2
ryanmac
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1/10/2023 9:04pm

Ran into Mr Melamed on Saturday on Seymour. Anyone want to hazard a guess what bike he was riding? Smile

4
metadave
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1/10/2023 9:23pm
ryanmac wrote:

Ran into Mr Melamed on Saturday on Seymour. Anyone want to hazard a guess what bike he was riding? Smile

scout-mens-mountain-bike-56321p7-6.jpg?VersionId=gt

 

28
1/10/2023 11:15pm
JoseMPM wrote:
In case it gets deleted, what the actual f??? It‘s not like SC don‘t have ebikes?                  

In case it gets deleted, what the actual f??? It‘s not like SC don‘t have ebikes?

 

2200D583-0349-417F-BAAF-28AF651FA571

 

 
 

 

PisgahGnar wrote:
The other site confirmed he is out as CEO.  No details but they got inside confirmation that Rob has left Santa Cruz.    interesting comment from...

The other site confirmed he is out as CEO.  No details but they got inside confirmation that Rob has left Santa Cruz. 
 

interesting comment from Rob

54B2DA61-5913-441E-8B40-275AEAC485A6

 

I thought Joe Graney had been CEO since 2016? Vital did a podcast with him 2 years ago. 
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ioqMYzNIfkw

2
krabo83
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1/10/2023 11:35pm
ryanmac wrote:

Ran into Mr Melamed on Saturday on Seymour. Anyone want to hazard a guess what bike he was riding? Smile

don‘t be that guy!

7
1
krabo83
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1/10/2023 11:37pm Edited Date/Time 1/11/2023 12:00pm
JoseMPM wrote:
In case it gets deleted, what the actual f??? It‘s not like SC don‘t have ebikes?                  

In case it gets deleted, what the actual f??? It‘s not like SC don‘t have ebikes?

 

2200D583-0349-417F-BAAF-28AF651FA571

 

 
 

 

PisgahGnar wrote:
The other site confirmed he is out as CEO.  No details but they got inside confirmation that Rob has left Santa Cruz.    interesting comment from...

The other site confirmed he is out as CEO.  No details but they got inside confirmation that Rob has left Santa Cruz. 
 

interesting comment from Rob

54B2DA61-5913-441E-8B40-275AEAC485A6

 

his comments don‘t seem that the split was amicable. if so very sad.

2
cmkneeland
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1/11/2023 3:15am
 

Since slope and freeride rumors are lacking in this year's thread. Tim Bringer on Canyon.

8
bulletbass man
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1/11/2023 3:57am

The little bit about rob I know i wouldn’t say it’s too surprising he’s happier doing stuff his way whether he’s associated with a brand or not.  Wonder if rob is backing that Unno dh team at all.  Would be cool if he was back on circuit even if he is no longer the syndicate owner in the eyes of fans.

PisgahGnar
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1/11/2023 4:40am
JoseMPM wrote:
In case it gets deleted, what the actual f??? It‘s not like SC don‘t have ebikes?                  

In case it gets deleted, what the actual f??? It‘s not like SC don‘t have ebikes?

 

2200D583-0349-417F-BAAF-28AF651FA571

 

 
 

 

PisgahGnar wrote:
The other site confirmed he is out as CEO.  No details but they got inside confirmation that Rob has left Santa Cruz.    interesting comment from...

The other site confirmed he is out as CEO.  No details but they got inside confirmation that Rob has left Santa Cruz. 
 

interesting comment from Rob

54B2DA61-5913-441E-8B40-275AEAC485A6

 

I thought Joe Graney had been CEO since 2016? Vital did a podcast with him 2 years ago. 
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ioqMYzNIfkw

Yeah you’re correct I’m not sure what role Rob was in. 

PisgahGnar
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1/11/2023 5:46am

Following the disastrous season of the reality TV show from the site which shall not be named, the coolest guy who got shafted out of a win still ended up on Orbea anyway. Good for Eric! 

 

 

9
stoic_machine
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1/11/2023 5:54am
ryanmac wrote:

Ran into Mr Melamed on Saturday on Seymour. Anyone want to hazard a guess what bike he was riding? Smile

A rocky mountain.

 

17
Primoz
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1/11/2023 8:11am

Tarmo should have won it.

As for Rob, wasn't he the founder of Santa Cruz bikes??

1
PisgahGnar
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1/11/2023 8:52am
Primoz wrote:

Tarmo should have won it.

As for Rob, wasn't he the founder of Santa Cruz bikes??

If they were looking for "the whole package" then Eric is clearly the one with personality and the speed. Tarmo is without a doubt a fast racer who should also be picked up by a team. The winner is just a freerider with a big Instagram following. 

2
Losifer
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1/11/2023 9:08am
Primoz wrote:

Tarmo should have won it.

As for Rob, wasn't he the founder of Santa Cruz bikes??

Yes he started Santa Cruz Bicycles in the mid 90's after his relationship with Santa Cruz Skateboards as a pro skater. 

 

3

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