23 Degrees Signs Dennis Dertell of Sweden
GRANADA, Spain (derailedonline.com) - Swedish downhill star Dennis Dertell has been signed onto the 23 Degree Sports Management team by owner Martin Whiteley. Dertell has been winning races in many different disciples in his home country as well as competing in several world cups in 2009.
Unlike the rest of the 23 Degrees crew, Dertell will not be riding for a major international team. Instead Dertell will be flying the 23 Degrees colors which haven't graced a racer since 2006. He will be piloting a Trek Session 88 for the 2010 series provided to him by 23 Degrees. Not surprising seeing Whiteley runs the Trek World Racing team.
At only 20 years old, Dennis Dertel has already won 15 national titles in Sweden in road, 4X, cross-country and downhill disciplines. 2008 he became Sweden's junior downhill champion (no championships took place in 2009).
© 23 Degrees
Martin Whiteley, owner of 23 Degrees, which runs the Trek World Racing squad, said: "I'd heard about this kid from the iXS Cups in 2008. He had a lot of success, winning junior races and finishing second overall, as well as getting a podium on scratch.
© 23 Degrees
"His riding [at the World Cups] in La Bresse and Maribor was impressive but immaturity and over-excitement robbed him of some solid placings. We're keen to give him a shot and help him achieve his first World Cup top 20."
© 23 Degrees
Dertell said: "I'm so excited for this, it's like a dream coming true for me. I've been working hard for this and I have a feeling that this year is going to be a great year. It's my birthday today and I received the bike and have just built it up. I'm about to hit the snow!"
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Posted on Jan 12, 2010 21:43:23 -0400 by Brady.