Cannondale Pro Cycling has completed its roster for the 2014 cycling season with the signing of Jean-Marc Marino, the team’s first French rider. Born in 1983 in Castres, at the foot of the French Pyrenees, 30 year-old Marino is an experienced domestique who has spent his career to date with a number of French teams. Marino turned pro in 2006 and joined Credit Agricole. After three seasons with the team, he moved to Sojasun. Marino has completed three grand tours during his eight-year career – two Tour de France (2012 and 2013) and one Vuelta a Espana (2007). As a strong well-rounded rider, Marino will use his skills to aid the team, and for this reason he will be called upon to support the leaders of Cannondale Pro Cycling.
“I’m really excited to start this new experience with Cannondale Pro Cycling,” said Marino. “I’m grateful to the team for offering me this opportunity. Since the folding of Sojasun, I’ve been waiting for the chance to compete at the highest level of cycling. Cannondale Pro Cycling is great team, with strong leaders and promising talents. I’ll be one of the oldest riders of the group, but I plan to share my knowledge of the sport with the rest of the team.”
“When I talked to Marino for the first time I really appreciated how eager he was to wear the Cannondale Pro Cycling jersey,” said team manager Roberto Amadio. “Our 2014 squad has many young riders. We wanted to complete the roster adding a member able to ensure know-how and team spirit. Marino has the right characteristics for our team: passion for cycling, devotion to duty and willingness to do well.”
Ron Callahan is the chief cook and bottlewasher at Bike World News, doing everything from website design to bike reviews.