August 22, 2005 – The Independent Nordic Development Initiative for 2010 is proud to announce their new partnership with Fischer Skis. Fischer has signed on to be the official ski sponsor of the newly formed Exel Racing Team. The partnership has matched some of Canada’s most talented ski racers with the best skis available, a fusion that is bound to be fast!

“We’re very happy to have a long term commitment from Fischer Skis. One of our mandates this year was not to take free equipment just because it was available,” says Karla Mika. “Now with Fischer as our official ski sponsor we will be skiing on and promoting skis we wouldn’t hesitate to buy ourselves!”

Teammate Rhonda Sandau adds, “It has been a few years since I have raced on Fischer skis and I am very excited to be back on board with them. I am confident that I will have great skis this winter!”

Five members of the Exel Racing Team, including Gordon Jewett, Adam Kates, Karla Mika, Jeff Ellis and Rhonda Sandau will be skiing exclusively on Fischer skis. Several athletes will also be using the highly improved Fischer ski boots. Members of the Exel Racing Team are looking forward to skiing on their new skis and boots at their early season snow camp in November, at Silver Star, BC from November 18th to 28th.

Fischer joins title sponsor Exel Sports NA, as well as Brooks Canada, SOS Headwear, Canmore Printcraft and Mad River Designs as exclusive sponsors of the Exel Racing Team.

Fischer is recognized as the world leader in nordic ski equipment and are dedicated in their quest to set new standards in ski equipment. More information on Fischer Skis is available at www.fischerskis.com.

The Independent Nordic Development Initiative for 2010 (INDi2010) has a mission to put Exel Racing Team members on the podium in every race all the way to the 2010 Olympics through ethical hard work, determination, focus and teamwork, and in doing so to promote cross-country skiing and a healthy lifestyle for all Canadians. The Exel Racing Team will run two women’s ski and health days at Hardwood Hills, Ontario (December 31st) and in Canmore, Alberta (mid-March) as part of it’s mission to promote cross-country skiing and healthy lifestyles to all Canadians. More information on the Exel Racing Team, as well as opportunities for individuals to support the team, can be found at www.exelracingteam.com.