The Steam Packet Company has announced it will sponsor one of the Isle of Man’s leading cyclists during the 2017 season.
As part of its support for Tom Mazzone, the Company will cover the cost of travel to and from the UK for off-Island training and competition during the year.
Tom, 23, is set for an exciting season of road racing after signing for the Metaltek team, which has an extensive race programme for 2017 including the UCI one-day and stage races across the UK and Europe, the Tour Series and the British Cycling National Elite Road and Circuit Series. He is also hopeful of riding for his home nation at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, to be held in Australia.
Last year, Tom, who turned professional in 2015, enjoyed a successful season, achieving nine victories and many podium places at some of the UK’s highest profile races, and hopes to build on those results this year.
He said: ‘This season is shaping up to be a great year as I begin preparations, working harder than ever and with more focus towards my goals. I look forward to working alongside a new coaching staff and team to achieve the best performances possible.
‘As I head into this exciting year of competition I’m delighted to receive the backing of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, which will make a huge difference to my season. Support with the cost of travel to attend events in the UK and beyond is a massive contribution to my 2017 programme, so I’d like to say a huge thank you to the Steam Packet Company.’
As a youngster Tom was a regular victor at local races and went on to win prestigious events, such as the British National Circuit Race Championships, the British National Road Race Championships and the North West Regional Championships, after deciding to concentrate on road racing. Today he is one of the Island’s leading cyclists, inspiring young riders and acting as an ambassador for the Isle of Man overseas.
Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward said: ‘Tom is a fine example of the sporting excellence the Isle of Man produces; determined, hard-working, successful and proud to wave the flag for the Island. His career is going from strength-to-strength and 2017 looks set to be one of the most exciting seasons so far.
‘Alongside competing Tom is a great ambassador for the Isle of Man, helping to promote events like Cyclefest which bring visitors to the Island, and an inspiration to young cyclist. We are delighted to be partnering with Tom for the 2017 and wish him all the best for this season and the years ahead.’
Photograph: Tom Mazzone with Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Marketing and Online Manager Renée Caley
