Williams sponsored professional team Mountain Khakis/Smart-Stop had a breakout performance this weekend that saw them clinch victory in three separate races, including one of the most prestigious criteriums in the US.
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| Luke Keough standing tall after winning the Terrapin Twilight |
On Saturday night TMK/SS lined up for the famous Terrapin Twilight criterium in Athens, Georgia. As far as American criteriums go this one is legendary. The list of past winners includes Gord Fraser, Davis Phinney and Chris Horner, and the atmosphere is electric. Tens of thousands of crazed (and often beer-soaked) fans line the one kilometer course. The cheers are deafening, and the energy is so powerful riders practically vibrate with it as they take the line. A win in this race can launch a rider into the limelight and solidify a team's reputation as one of real players in American racing. Which is exactly what happened when Luke Keough blasted from the shadows Saturday night to win with by bike throw.
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| A HUGE bike throw victory for young Luke Keough! |
For full details please see the report in
Cycling News, or visit the
Team Mountain Khakis/Smart-Stop website.
The team has been working hard to come together in order to deliver when it counts. The victory at Athens not only proved that they have what it takes to perform in the nation's biggest races, but infused them with the confidence and positivity to go out hungry for the win in every race. They say success breeds success, but it was was nevertheless astounding to see the team go out the very next day and take another huge win in the Roswell Criterium.
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| A big margin on a big win for Ben Zawacki |
Roswell is another pillar of US crit racing and the 2nd race in the Speedweek series that Athens kicks off. After a long day of racing with TMK/SS constantly on the front initiating moves and controlling the race, Benjamin Zawacki managed to initiate a three man move in the closing laps. Strong, and sure, and full of confidence, Zawacki left his breakmates far behind and powered to
a resounding sprint win. You can see video of the finish
here.
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| Ben Zawacki beaming atop the podium at the Roswell Criterium |
Not to be outdone, Shane Kline used a strong kick to take the win at the Brick City Criterium back in North Carolina. The team took the race by the horns and wrestled it into submission, controlling breaks until 10 to go and then setting up an unbeatable leadout.
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| Shane Kline dusts the competition at the Brick City Criterium |
After this weekend's dominant performances it cannot be denied: Team Mountain Khakis/Smart-Stop is a true force to be reckoned with in American racing. We're proud to support such a strong program, and we're happy that they can confirm what we've known for a long time: Winners Ride Williams.
