THOMAS SIGNS FOR BARLOWORLD

Britain will have yet another continental-based pro in 2007 after Geraint Thomas signed a two-year deal with Barloworld.

Thomas officially sealed the deal in Italy on Friday with the Professional Continental team in the presence of British Cycling?s Max Sciandri and Baroloworld team manager Claudio Corti. ?Geraint?s really pleased.? Sciandri said. ?They?re happy for Geraint to stick with his track riding as well, as doing the road, so he?ll be riding a balanced program.?

?They?re really going to support him every way they can. He?s only just signed, they?ve taken his measurements and they?re already planning on how to make him a track bike as well as the road bikes.?

?The best news of all is that he?s got a two year contract. He?ll have time to settle in without too much pressure.?

Thomas spoke briefly with Cycling Weekly and confirmed the news. He said he was "delighted" with the contract.

Thomas could start his pro. career as early as the Tour Down Under in January 2007, should Barloworld take part in the Australian season-opener. The rest of his race program for the year will be settled in the near future. At least part of the time Thomas will be living in Tuscany at British Cycling?s Italian base.