Specialized Factory MTB Racing

From the original Team Stumpjumper to today's multi-discipline dirt disciples, Specialized riders have stood atop virtually every MTB podium. Following are highlights on a few of our stars, and be sure to check the Specialized Factory Racing blog for the latest news & reports from off-the-road.

Specialized Sponsors Downhill Champs Sam Hill and Brendan Fairclough

Specialized announced today a much anticipated decision to sponsor Team Monster Energy in 2009—home to two of the most notorious faces in downhill racing, 2X World DH Champion Sam Hill and 2006 Junior World Cup DH Champion Brendan Fairclough.
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Christoph Sauser

Christoph is off to a great third season with Specialized and is gearing up for the Olympics in China. After taking the win at several World Cup Events, Susi hopes to replace his Olympic Bronze Medal with GOLD in 2008..
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Rafael Alvarez De Lara

Riding for Specialized, Rafael Alvarez de Lara (aka “Rafa Alvarez”) is quiet and unassuming off the bike but an assassin once the gate drops. This 27-year-old from western Spain has multiple Spanish National BMX Championships under his belt and is quickly gaining an impressive collection of trophies on 26” wheels. 
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Lene Byberg

New to the Specialized MTB Factory Team last year, Norwegian XC racer Lene Byberg. Lene first surprised the cycling world when she came out of nowhere to be selected for the 2004 Summer Olympics road team before setting her eye solely on off-road racing.
Lene's Bio

Ned Overend

Simply put, Ned is the man. His contributions to Specialized and the sport of cycling span three decades. Ned "retired" from full-time mtn bike racing in the mid-90's, only to go on to win two triathlon world championships. "Deadly Nedly" is now a vital member of our R&D team, captains the XC squad, and personifies what Specialized aspires to be.
Ned's Bio

Endurance Athlete Rebecca Rusch

Rebecca Rusch is a one of the top adventure racers in the world as well as a world-class paddler and accomplished endurance mountain biker. She competes in all the major adventure races each year, and is a strong contender for a podium finish.
Bio