Sponsors

The Capo Cycling Apparel (technical & casual) and Capo Custom brands are wholly owned and distributed by Upland Sports Group (USG) in the United States. USG was founded in 2002 with the intent of bringing high-quality, European cycling products to bicycle retailers and their customers throughout North America and Australia.  USG is headquartered in Emeryville, California with manufacturing partnerships in Italy (7 factories), the USA (1 factory) and Canada (1 factory).

During 2004 USG founders, Gary Vasconi and Robert Carbone, saw a widening gap within the apparel vertical, specifically high-end road apparel.  Capitalizing on USG’s growing network of dealers and in working closely with them, USG began the process of developing Capo Cycling Apparel and Capo Custom brands to satisfy the needs of the discerning end-users and IBDs.  Now, through its Capo brand, USG is able to offer more viable turns at the IBD level, a more satisfied end-user who sees greater value in their technical apparel and a unique style presented to the industry as an inline collection.

“I believe our main advantage against our competitors is that we own our brand.” comments Gary Vasconi.  “Yes, we are the importer and distributer of the Capo brand in the US, but as owners of USG we are the designers of the of the brand, too.  This allows us to work with our customers on a daily basis to develop the correct products for the US market based on end user and retail requirement/demand.  Also, as the market has changed over the last 5 years it is imperative that apparel suppliers be able to produce inline and custom apparel for on and off the bicycle.  And, this is exactly what we do.  For us, cycling is not just a sport it’s a life style!”

Over 200 years ago, four American Patriot colonels met on the Watauga River which flows through Boone to discuss their strategic plans for success in the American Revolution. That meeting resulted in victory at the Battle of Kings Mountain, the turning point in the fight for our country’s freedom. Let the Watauga be the source of inspiration for your next meeting or gathering!

We have everything from great hotels and restaurants to wonderful attractions and events to keep your group entertained. And, a wedding in Boone and the High Country creates a beautifully scenic and memorable day for all in attendance. A four-season playground, the Boone area truly has something for everyone. And virtually every room has a view. The mountains, rivers and the natural, scenic beauty are the region’s greatest assets.

Pirate Race Productions is dedicated to staging and promoting athletic events that are incredibly fun for our participants, that are valuable marketing opportunities for our sponsors, and that provide great entertainment for our spectators.

Pirate Race Productions is managed by Andrew Stackhouse. He has over 10 years experience in public policy and management consulting, and a background in cycling, multisport, sailing, and skiing competition. He has repeatedly brought together dozens of individuals to help stage safe and successful events by making the volunteer experience rewarding and balancing the demands of the event with each person’s desire to participate.