Akron, OH USPro Tri, a new company created to support American Pro Triathletes, is proud to announce the launch of their 2008 Pro Team.

“As a 12 year veteran of the sport and first year pro, I recognized that most current and prospective Pro’s are often in a financial hole from the sport. They are either forced to work side jobs to make end’s meat and sacrifice training/recovery, forfeit their Pro dreams and remain an age grouper, or simply abandon the sport altogether” according to team director Ryan Bates. “Sure, there are a few American Pro’s who manage to make a decent living in the sport, but the vast majority make little to no money.”

USPro Tri was set up to change that, providing a group of great sponsors to offer these athletes support. In return these sponsors receive a greater return on investment, as the team can provide much more visibility than the individuals. In its first year the team consists of 6 Pro’s: Chris Tremonte, Daniel Bretscher, Dave Kuendig, John Kenny, Kevin Lisska, and Ryan Bates. They will race everything from ITU to Ironman. Plans are to expand the program both in total athletes and men/women in future years.

The USPro Tri team has already produced some great 2008 results. Highlights include Daniel Bretscher’s stunning 2nd overall and 1st American at Memphis in May, John Kenny’s 2nd American placing at the FINA Open Water 25k Swimming World Championships, and Kevin Lisska’s 5th overall and 1st American at Florida 70.3.

The team is supplied by Ceepo Bikes, Profile Design aerobars and wetsuits, Trico Sports travel cases, Suunto heart rate monitors, Beyond Fabrications wheels, Xtri.com/FuelBelt, TRP brakes/levers, Polar Bottles, and several race directors. They are actively seeking title sponsorship as well.

For more information, keep track of the team at their new website www.USProTri.com !