Bunbury BMX star signs with US team

Olympian Lauren Reynolds got an early Christmas present this week after she was signed to American- based BMX manufacturer Ssquared Bicycles’ factory team – her first professional contract.

The Bunbury athlete will begin training with the outfit next month.

The deal means Reynolds, 21, will have the opportunity to immerse herself in the fierce competition in America and chase a prestigious US title next year.

Her first assignment for the new team will be the USA BMX Pro Series season opener in Arizona in March.

She will race the entire USA BMX Pro Series season and compete in the Union Cycling International Supercross Series and BMX World Championships.

Reynolds said she was excited to reach the milestone of her first professional contract but that she was still on the lookout for sponsors.

“The new contract gives me the opportunity to concentrate on riding and earn a salary to support myself,” she said.

“I’ll remain working closely with the national team riding with and for Australia at times during the next 12 months.”

After the ecstasy of snatching one of just two women’s places in the Australian BMX team, the Olympics was a mixed experience for the tough-as-nails rider, who crashed in her semi-final.

Ssquared Bicycles owner John Sawyer said he was thrilled to have inked a deal with Reynolds.

“I think she’ll be a great asset to our program, not only because she’s an Olympic-level rider but also because her personality and experience make her a great role model and representative for our brand and the sport,” he said.