Greg Minnaar Released from Haro-Lee Dungarees

19.11.2003

Below is a press release issued by the Haro Bicycle Corporation in the last 24 hours.

At this stage we are not able to add anything further. Honda will issue a formal press release about the 2004 program and line up of Team G Cross Honda once that has been finalised. The timing is such that Haro needed to make an announcement now about Greg's departure from their program, and Honda agreed that it be stated where he would be going, but until they have finalised their full program, they have nothing to add to the Haro statement. It is expected that an official press release will be made in December.

World Champion Greg Minnaar Released From Haro/Lee Dungarees Team

November 18, 2003 - Vista, California, Haro Bicycle Corporation announced today the release of Greg Minnaar from the Haro/Lee Dungarees Team. Haro President and CEO, Jim Ford, made this statement regarding the departure of the 2003 Downhill World Champion and NORBA downhill champion, "Greg is both a great person and a great athlete, but we choose not to match an offer presented to Greg to ride for Honda in 2004. Although the financial terms of the offer were significant, money wasn't the real issue. Greg and I talked and after hearing his desire to work with Honda on this project, I felt that it was best for both of us to end the relationship on a positive note".

Greg, who raced only one season for the Haro Lee Dungarees Mountain Bike Team, was quick to praise the team that assisted him to his World Championship title. "Obviously this was a difficult decision for me after having had such a great year with the Haro team and all they have done for me. I have been very fortunate in my career already, and I am very much indebted to all at Haro for their support and genuine loyalty this year".

Currently, Haro has no plans to replace Minnaar and will instead rely on Australian team-mate Mick Hannah to pick up where Greg left off in downhill and 4X competition. The Haro Team enjoyed its best season ever in 2003 thanks to Minnaar's accomplishments and another NORBA title in Short-Track won by Canadian Seamus McGrath. Cross-country and short-track rider Chris Sheppard and 4X specialist Mike King are expected back, along with Hannah and McGrath for the 2004 season.

Martin Whiteley
Director
23 Degrees Sports Management
mailto:captain23@23degrees-sports.com
www.23degrees-sports.com