The first year as part of the Man Game, Meiji are not expecting very much in the way of victories and podium finishes. This is because the team is building for the future. There aren't a whole lot of stars in the Asia Pacific area in cycling, so we've had to bring in some Aussie's and Kiwi's as well. That said the results this season haven't been spectacular, not that we were expecting them to be, but more on the right path. Our youngsters are gaining valuable experience and our team leaders are doing a good job of grabbing small amounts of points in the races we've participated in.
Not only that, but we achieved the teams Unofficial Goal of the Year, which was to get a stage win, thanks to the efforts of Yuan Wei currently loaned in from team WWE.
The most important thing for us, is getting in breakaways and being in contention for Mountain jerseys and the odd sprint here or there.
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Now in relation to these results, the team sponsors seem satisfied and contract negotiations are expected to take place in the coming weeks for an extension, however there has been questions of a new second sponsor from Europe which could change the perspective of the team.
Some will hope that the team sticks to its region, while others may want the team to branch out a little to be more competitive, but thats for you to decide.
Edited by valverde321 on 10-02-2012 00:36
Now in relation to these results, the team sponsors seem satisfied and contract negotiations are expected to take place in the coming weeks for an extension, however there has been questions of a new second sponsor from Europe which could change the perspective of the team.
Some will hope that the team sticks to its region, while others may want the team to branch out a little to be more competitive, but thats for you to decide.
Interesting! I like the focus of your team but I understand why you might want more European riders in order to be competitive.
Meiji may have a different sponsor backing them up for next season! It has become public knowledge that Fuji is unhappy with the results of the team, especially the invisible performance at their home race in Philladelphia!
There are 2-3 potential sponsors in talks with the team, one of which is a fairly well know Italian sponsor, and another is an American Bike Company, who support Japanese cycling! The last one is still completely unknown, but some say it could be Fuji talking about a renewal, however for less money than they are getting this season!
One thing is certain though, the Asian/South Pacific focus will still remain strong within the team. Edited by valverde321 on 10-06-2012 18:32
After last seasons poor results, Fuji decided that although they loved our idea the results just weren't there and they were losing money. This meant that they were either going to return with less money to give to the team, or someone was going to take their place.
To replace Fuji Meiji have found not one, but two new co-sponsors! The first sponsor is a new Bike Sponsor and supplier who have always wanted good results in Japan for whichever teams they decide to sponsor, so Cannodale will be a perfect fit!
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The 2nd new sponsor is D'Angelo & Antenucci, and they are based in Italy, but also have a passion for Japanese cycling!
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The new sponsors, will of course demand a few riders from their own area, but they do still want it to be an Asian cycling team, so Meiji was able to negotiate, that each country of representation from the new sponsors, USA and Italy, will each only have a max of 3 riders from that area!
This should help improve the team, and also allow the team to keep its shape. Bringing in more money to develop our own riders into top riders is the goal and by bringing in experienced riders from both Italy and the USA, we can plan on getting a bit better results next season!
The team jersey has also been made by Top Jersey Maker, ANFreeman, but two versions have been made, and only 1 can be used for the season. This is where we need your help! If you could tell us which jersey you think we should ride in next year, that would be greatly appreciated! Afterall this sport is all about getting the fans involved.
So the inaugural season for Meiji can probably be looked back on as a success. The finish to the season certainly had its drama, and the Asia tour rankings goal was a completed goal, by the slimmest of margins. Obviously we did not place very well in the actual Continental Tour (to be re-named ProContinental Tour for next season) but with our focus on Asia, I think the riders and staff did an excellent job in achieving this goal.
The season began at the MTN classic for us, where a "no-show" began as it developed into a fairly regular theme. However we were not too upset with this, as the project will take a few years for the team to fully blossom.
The first major result of the season was a 2nd place at Mumbai Cyclothon 2, where Anuar Manan grabbed 2nd place in a sprint. It was great for the team, but felt like ages until another decent result.
The first big win came at the Tour de Langkawi where loanee Yuan Wei was able to make a big effort and stay clear for the win, from the 11 man breakaway. It was certainly a great win, and represents the team well, a group of fighters, who love to make the team proud.
Missing the Top 5 goal at the Tour of Japan was a slight disappointment but if its any consolation, our best rider finished 6th.
In the end our team goals were:
• (5th) Top 5: Asia Tour Team Rankings • (4th) Top 5: Japan Cup • (2nd) Win: Tour of Taihu • (14th) Top 10: Tour of Taiwan • (6th) Top 5: Tour of Japan
Accomplishing these goals set out makes the management very happy, and knowing that although we didn't complete all goals set out, we were very close in the ones we didn't get, so we hope to build on that in the season to come.
Also, with the announcement of the new sponsors Cannondale (who is becoming the co-title sponsor) and D'Angelo & Antenucci, we would like to thank Fuji for its support over the season, and wish them the best of luck in the future.
The new team website should be "updated" the next week or two, where more news on the teams future plans, as well as riders will be revealed.
For everyone at Meiji we thank you for a great season, and hope for many more in the future.
He may like a good beer, but the GF has a sweet tooth, especially for chocolate. Nothing is out of the question, but these rumours are a little carried away as he believes he has a spot on the team next year.
That said an offer for the right amount of money, would definitely be up for consideration.
Edited by valverde321 on 15-10-2012 00:39
