January 2013

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Jan. 16, 2013 – The BISSELL Pro Cycling Team is proud to announce that it has signed Mac Brennan for the 2013 season. Brennan raced in 2012 for the BISSELL U25 development team, BISSELL-ABG-NUVO, and was brought up to the BISSELL pro squad as a stagiare in July 2012. 

Brennan, a twenty-two year old resident of East Jordan, Mich., has experienced a steady rise in the sport where he’s netted top results at races throughout the Midwest including sixth at the 2012 USA U23 Elite Road National Championships. Brennan’s first race for the BISSELL Pro Cycling Team was the 2012 USA National Criterium Championship in Grand Rapids, Mich. and then the Tour of Elk Grove. 

"I was impressed with Mac's skill set as a bike racer right away”, said BISSELL Director Omer Kem. “He was eager to do whatever the team asked and took direction very well. It was a very easy transition for him into the pro team."

The BISSELL U25 development team was established to develop young Midwestern cyclists into professional bicycle racers, and Brennan is a great success story. Kem speaks of the U25 team: “They have built a team structure that cultivates talent by providing valuable NRC race experience, as well as, teaching the young riders how to behave as professionals. This is hugely valuable to the pro team as we know that we have a great pool of young riders to draw from."

For 2013, BISSELL will look to Mac to support the overall team effort, as well as, give him opportunities to shine at events that suit his strengths. “Helping with the development of young Michigan riders is an important goal for the team,” said Kem. 

Founding sponsor, Bob Hughes of Advantage Benefits, adds, “When Mark Bissell and I started the pro team, our number one priority was to give talented and dedicated young Michigan riders the chance to climb the cycling ranks which we’ve seen with Brent Bookwalter whose gone on to compete on an international level.  Adding the Elite/Development team last year has doubled those efforts and it’s exciting to see Mac work up to the Pro Team.  He is a perfect example of what we are lending our support to. It’s Exciting. Go Mac!”