Cycling and tri apparel specialist Castelli has confirmed a contract renewal with Belgian top triathlete Frederik Van Lierde. As a result of the new agreement, the triathlon apparel manufacturer and Frederik Van Lierde will ‘prolong their fruitful collaboration until the end of 2018.’
Castelli notes that the 2013 IRONMAN World Champion and multiple IRONMAN event winner has ‘already benefited from the performance advantage of Castelli’s triathlon collection in the past three seasons.’
Going forwards Van Lierde will have access to the full Castelli Free triathlon collection, from the T1:Stealth Top and comfortable Free ITU Suit to the short sleeved Free Sanremo Suit, which is billed as ‘a true secret weapon and watt saver’.
With his experience and feedback Van Lierde has also played a key role in the product development of the 2016 Free triathlon collection.
“I worked with Castelli over the last three seasons, it’s just amazing and a big honour for me to continue our excellent partnership for another three years.“ Van Lierde said.
“Winning the IRONMAN World Championship in 2013 wearing the Castelli Free ITU Suit made a big difference for me. The ITU suit is the best and most comfortable option. I’ve never worn a better suit in my 13-year pro career. The seat pad is fantastic. The race suit provides good aerodynamics and highest comfort for the run.”
He continued, “Besides racing [triathlon] I appreciate my Gabba [cycling] jersey. Living in Belgium often means training in bad weather and the Gabba makes it much easier to deal with foul weather.”
Castelli Brand Manager Steve Smith added “We are happy to continue working with a great champion. Both parties share the same passion and professionalism. While we are continuously working to improve the comfort and performance of our products, Frederik is strongly committed to preparing perfectly for his next goals.
“Castelli considers every little detail like a tri specific seat pad, comfortable leg endings, armholes or pockets, paired with the restless search of saving watts in the wind tunnel… In spite of all the strain, we never lose sight that this sport is fun.”
In 2015, Van Lierde won IRONMAN South Africa. His next goal is the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, where he’ll join a powerful group of Castelli sponsored athletes such as triple IRONMAN World Champion Mirinda Carfrae, Timothy O’Donnell, Marino Vanhoenacker, Andreas Raelert, Fraser Cartmell and paralympic champion Alex Zanardi.
www.castelli-cycling.com/triathlon
