Marin and Rabobank Welcome Brianne Spiersch and Evan Geankoplis to the Team

Marin // Rabobank add two new, young racers to the team who are set to focus on the California Enduro Series. - Fred

NOVATO, Calif. – April 21, 2015 – Marin Mountain Bikes Inc. and Rabobank N.A. today announced the co-sponsorship of professional racers Brianne Spiersch andEvan Geankoplis.

Brianne Spiersch

Spiersch has a storied cycling history as a competitive racer and relentless promoter of the sport to people of all ages. She has earned her podium finishes at major, single-day events like the USA Cycling National Championships, Downieville Classic and Sea Otter Classic, in addition to completing several grueling XC race series. Moving up to the Pro class in 2014, Spiersch made her professional debut in the rapidly growing California Enduro Series — finishing second.

In the community, Spiersch’s achievements are well known. As a former race promoter and current cycling coach for the successful Salinas High School Mountain Bike Team, her accomplishments have grown the sport. Perhaps most notably, Spiersch is director of the California chapter of Little Bella’s, a development program for girls started by Olympic Mountain Biker Lea Davison and sister Sabra Davison.

“Brianne is a stand-up athlete who excels in competition and in the community,” said Marin CEO Matt VanEnkevort. “Marin and Rabobank share her passion for cycling as a competitive sport and frequent pastime for everyone.”

In 2015, Spiersch has her sights focused on the California Enduro Series, and on as many North American Enduro Tour events as possible.

“I couldn't be happier to be involved with Marin Bikes and Rabobank,” said Spiersch. “They measure success by more than just counting podium finishes. Both companies value the importance of building the sport from the grass roots level. It’s about creating more opportunities for people to get outside, ride their bikes and enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.”

Evan Geankoplis

Geankoplis, 23, has a knack for winning. Soaring in virtually every sport he’s pursued in his young athletic career, the talented professional mountain bike racer draws his athleticism and confidence from past achievements in BMX, karting, track and field, soccer and basketball.

In the world of MTB racing, the Sacramento Valley native’s success transcends the hill. Geankoplis has also raced Enduro, road, BMX, dual slalom, cross country and pump track. Freehub Magazine said of its 2013 team rider, “... if it’s on a bike, Evan’s got it dialed.” It was his “immense talent and an infectiously positive attitude” that earned him a spot on the team, wrote the magazine.

Geankoplis’ tenacity, extraordinary skill and strong work ethic are well documented. Backed by an extensive, off-course training regimen, he has his eyes set on a full-time and rewarding career as an MTB professional. In 2015, Geankoplis is focusing his efforts on the six-event California Enduro Series aboard his Marin Attack Trail XT 9 and Rift Zone 9 bikes.

“Joining forces with Rabobank to support Evan is a big win for all of us,” said Marin CEO Mat VanEnkevort. “Rabobank has cycling in their DNA, as does Marin. Evan is a talented, professional, and pleasant young man who just happens to be crazy fast. I rode with him on our local trails and was really impressed by both his skills, and his demeanor. He represents the kind of athlete that we really enjoy calling part of the family.”

“Riding for Marin with the additional support of Rabobank is a fantastic opportunity,” said Geankoplis. “Equipped with the best bikes and resources from a bank committed to cycling the world over will give me the necessary focus to consistently pursue podium finishes in 2015.”