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SD Worx strengthens itself with signing of Barbara Guarischi

Barbara Guarischi

SD Worx has signed Barbara Guarischi, formerly of Movistar, to their roster for the next 2 years. The Italian leaves Movistar after 3 seasons on the Spanish team. Guarischi started her 2022 season with a demotion for dangerous sprinting at the Vuelta CV Feminas. She swiped across the front of Chiara Consonni causing a crash. From there her season got better, winning the Mediterranean Games RR, finishing 2nd at the Women’s Tour in Harlow, 3rd in the Tour of Scandinavia twice, 5th at Scheldeprijs and Vårgårda WestSweden, and 6th at Nokere Koerse. Guarischi finished off the 2022 season with 5th in the inaugral Gravel World Championship as well. The Mediterranean Games victory was her first since winning the first stage of the 2019 Thüringen Ladies Tour.

“With the arrival of Lorena Wiebes, we were looking for reinforcements to prepare for the sprint. We have never had a real sprint train, but now a lead-out train is necessary for Lorena. With Elena Cecchini, Christine Majerus, Lonneke Uneken and Barbara Guarischi we have riders who are suitable for this.

Barbara is an experienced rider who knows how to choose a sprint position. She will play an important role in that sprint train.”

Danny Stam, SD Worx sporting manager

“I thought it was an honour when I heard through Elena (SD Worx rider Elena Cecchini, ed.) that the team was interested in me. Although I have been in the peloton for years, I see this as a new chapter in my career.

It’s a move that I didn’t expect anymore. I am also looking forward to working with Lorena Wiebes. I am very motivated to take on this adventure.”

Barbara Guarischi
Elena Cecchini
Elena Cecchini

SD Worx has also confirmed the extension of Elena Ceccini for 2023. The Italian has been a part of the team since leaving Canyon SRAM going into the 2021 season. Her best individual result in 2022 was 3rd on Stage 1 of the Women’s Tour with other strong finishes including 4th at Omloop van het Hageland and 5th at Trofeo Alfredo Binda too. For Cecchini, the new signing of Guarischi is a change to race together for the first time since 2011 when they were both on the same Colavita – Forno d’Asolo team.

“Elena is a fixed value in this team and has developed into a real race captain. Besides being a good rider, she is also a nice person. A mood maker, who also takes responsibility towards the younger riders. Elena teaches them the trade on and off the bike.”

Danny Stam, SD Worx sporting manager

“I didn’t have to think twice when Team SD Worx offered me a new contract. I’m really enjoying myself in the team and I’ve noticed in the past year that I’ve taken another step. I have found my role within the team.

When I ride in the service of the other girls, this is greatly appreciated. In addition, I am happy with the arrival of Barbara Guarischi. That also gives extra motivation.”

Elena Cecchini