May 26, 2009 (Bozeman, MT) – One of the longest and strongest teams on the US Nordic scene, the Factory Team, based out of Bozeman, MT is discontinuing after 15 years. Andy Gerlach of Endurance Enterprises which owns and manages the team spoke with us regarding his tough decision to shut down the Factory Team.

“We had strong interest from Saab and other parties, but no one could make the long term commitment we needed to continue by May 15. We had commitments from our great ski industry partners to continue to support the Factory Team.
But without the outside the industry title sponsor secured, continuing the program is not financially viable,” said Gerlach.

“Salomon, our key ski industry partner for each of the 15 years, will continue to support the Factory Team athletes as they chase their ski racing dreams,” Gerlach continued.

“It has been a fabulous 15 years working with great people in a great industry. The sponsors whose brands we had the opportunity to help grow, and the athletes we worked with and help achieve their racing dreams have provided us many fond memories that we will look fondly back on for years to come. After 15 years of running the Factory Team it was time personally and professionally for my wife and I to move on and tackle new challenges,” added Gerlach.

The team has been a mainstay in the USA as a dominant force acting serving as launch pad and mentoring program for many skiers as well as giving veterans and other top skiers the opportunity to continue racing and give back to the sport. The Factory Team has worked with Saab, Subaru, Salomon, Fischer, Swix and many other sponsors over the years.

We join the ski community in thanking the Factory Team for many years of great racing and wish Gerlach and all team members all the best.