James Canny and their NZ Cycling Project Team are currently racing in the US for 90 days and are there until mid-September. In the coming year there are likely to be some local riders that will qualify to race in the development team.
The main proviso is the successful riders need to be well organised, self-starters, have racing potential, but most must have or be studying for a tertiary qualification (some academic support can be provided by the team). The team has a range of committed sponsors both within and outside of NZ, which helps minimise rider travel accommodation and equipment costs.
A typical year will see qualifying riders racing in the US, Australia twice and Singapore. Riders such as Eddie, Aaron Gate, Simon van Velthooven, Shem Roger, Sam Steel and the Chapman boys and many others have either ridden for the team or are currently riding for the team.
Have a read about their podiums in pro races and their big win in down town Chicago!
Also check out their new team website http://nzcyclingproject.com/ which covers everything L&M Group-Ricoh NZ related.
They are certainly flying the kiwi flag proudly over there.