The 2013 Team SmartStop presented by Mountain Khakis is currently holding the season opening camp in Winston-Salem and we stopped by to see what is going on.

With an increased budget, new bikes and a larger roster that includes several stellar new riders, this team looks to be a big threat this season. But here in camp it was all about meeting new team mates, getting the new bikes, learning about all the sponsors and various media obligations.
Team owners Jamie Bennett and Pat Raines although very busy every day beamed with pride.


All images © Herbert Krabel / slowtwitch.com

Assembling on a very cold morning for the public Triple Hump ride.

Final instructions for the field of about 50 riders.

Rolling out of town on a morning that felt like 23 degrees Fahrenheit.

The nicely organized bunch rolls past Wake Forest University.

Chris Kreidl is a super hard working mechanic.

Early morning breakfast calm in the team house.

Canadian Criterium Champion Ben Chaddock was very busy with the juicer.

Slowly the crowd is growing.

Meanwhile outside on another cold morning Frank Travieso readies his new Wilier ride.

And he is off.

Team owner Jamie Bennett before the team launch at the Garage night club in Winston-Salem.

All lined up on stage.

Ben Chaddock is being introduced.

Another evening and the bikes are a ride.

Some of the athletes readied their bikes for the pending departure to Tucson.

While the team eats inside, Rex makes sure no uninvited visitors come in.

The pool table serves well as an autographing desk.

The team entertainment after dinner and other obligations.

Olympian Bobby Lea is new on the team.

The work is never done for Chris Kreidl.