McCallum and Oliphant sign contract extensions for the 2013 season

Lothians-based cyclists James McCallum and Evan Oliphant will again feature in major events around Britain and overseas after signing contract extensions with their professional teams for the 2013 season, writes COLIN RENTON.

Scottish road race and criterium champion McCallum will remain with the Rapha Condor-Sharp team next season after agreeing a new deal.

In addition to playing a key role in events such as the Halfords Tour Series, the 33-year-old, a Commonwealth Games medallist in 2006, will help to develop the young riders in the squad. Rapha have signed four newcomers from the junior ranks for 2013.

Among the colleagues who are being retained are Olympic gold medallist Ed Clancy and former British road race champion Kristian House, although experienced men Dean Downing and Andy Tennant have been released.

Meanwhile, Oliphant, who was McCallum’s predecessor as Scottish champion, will again compete for Team Raleigh. The 30-year-old recorded three podium finishes this season, including second place in a stage of the Tour of Mexico. He has signed a contract extension with Raleigh, as have 2011 Halfords Tour Series winner Graham Briggs, British Road Race medallist Russell Hampton and Great Britain junior international Matt Holmes.