Ella Unleashed – Kiwi Harris signs for 2023
WORDS: REBECCA BLAND
Le Col – Wahoo is excited to announce the signing of New Zealander Ella Harris for two years from 2023. The 24-year-old turned pro four years ago, and in that time has graduated from Zwift Academy winner to a motivated all-rounder capable of securing top results on the world stage.
“I’ve basically admired the team since the start of the year, I see it as a forward-thinking, well structured and also ambitious setup,” said Ella. “I really like the fact that Tom and the team seem to have greater aspirations and bigger objectives for the future, so I feel really motivated to hopefully be a part of that and grow as a rider as the team grows.”
Ella joins Le Col – Wahoo with a strong feel for the team’s ethos already. As someone who thrives in the more unpredictable race situations, she sees herself as something of an opportunist.
“I’d really like to find myself as a rider again and use the fresh environment and the extra motivation that will come with that to seek more opportunities in races,” said Ella. “I’m looking forward to continuing to develop as a rider at a team where they’re equally ambitious, and hopefully I’ll be able to be unleashed in races and try my chances.”
General manager Tom Varney says the decision to sign Ella was an easy one to make.
"We're delighted to add Ella to our team. Since our first interaction I felt a real warmth in her personality that endeared her to me. When we began to discuss the team’s and her own values and future goals, it was clear we were aligned.
"We're looking forward to helping Ella develop over the coming years and to reach our goals together. She'll be an instant fit to the personality and ethos of the team."
Growing up in New Zealand and away from cycling’s age-old hub in Europe, Ella is used to navigating new environments with a confidence and determination that serve her well as a professional athlete.
It’s these traits, not to mention her huge talent on the road, that will make her a valuable teammate on all terrains and throughout the 2023 and 2024 season.