MALVERN'S top mountain bike racer Liam Killeen, aged 21, has signed a new contract with the Subaru Gary Fisher team.

Next year sees him move from his part time contract of 2002 and 2003, to a full time contract with the marquee team.

The previous part time situation had Liam riding also for the National Team program of Great Britain where he not only received financial assistance, but also coaching and other supportive services.

Under the new situation Liam continues to receive coaching assistance and support from the National Program, but will be able to race full time in the colours of Subaru Gary Fisher, with the obvious exceptions of the Olympics and World Championships.

Commonwealth bronze medallist Killeen said: "I'm really happy to make the step to full time with a professional trade team, especially one that I know as well as Subaru Gary Fisher, yet I will still receive some of the much valued support from the National Program and be able to continue working with my long time coach, Gary Foord."

The 2003 U23 World Cup Champion, who recently won the first international race held on the near complete Athens Olympic course, has set himself very clear targets for 2004, namely the U23 World Championship title, and of course a solid performance at the Olympics come August.