Australian Ben O’Connor has committed to Dimension Data, renewing his contract until 2020, the team announced today.
This follows a challenging Giro d’Italia campaign where both the team’s general classification contenders were forced to pull out.
Australian Ben O’Connor has committed to Dimension Data, renewing his contract until 2020. Photo: Stiehl Photography
O’Connor crashed out in stage 19 and Louis Meintjes withdrew due to illness after stage 16. The Australian had been just outside the top 10 until the crash.
He broke his collarbone on the descent of the Sestriere while challenging for a top-8 position with, at the time, just two stages to go.
Having joined DiData 18 months ago, team principal Douglas Ryder said O’Connor’s commitment formed an integral part of the team’s “Vision 2020” campaign.
“We’re really happy to have Ben continue his career and development at DiData,” Ryder said.
“He has been such an amazing addition to the team. He leverages the mentorship we have in our team both on and off the bike and in a leadership role when the opportunity presents itself.”
O’Connor said the team was a “perfect fit” for him, which was his reason for signing the extended contract.
“Here we have the ability to actually race the race, and that freedom allows you to learn and grow in a professional environment.
“This system really works for me so it is a great fit. I am also happy to be able to show loyalty to the team that believed in me initially and gave me that opportunity.”
The Giro was an eye-opener for him, O’Connor added. “The Giro was massively disappointing for me in the end, but it opened my eyes to more defined goals.
“I am a GC rider and a Grand Tour white jersey is definitely right up there on top of my list of goals, a goal I look forward to chasing with DiData.”
South African Ryan Gibbons was the team’s successful sprinter during the Giro, read his experiences here.
