DEERFIELD, Ill., March 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Astellas Pharma US, Inc. (Astellas), a U.S. subsidiary of Tokyo-based Astellas Pharma Inc. (Tokyo: 4503) today announced the debut of the Astellas Oncology Cycling Team presented by Athletes By Design (ABD) Cycling. The team is registered as a Domestic Elite Team with USA Cycling and will concentrate on the development of young, up-and-coming riders. The team will compete in the National Criterium Calendar, National Racing Calendar, national championships as well as participate in select cancer charity rides to support the cancer community.

"The sponsorship of this cycling team further demonstrates our commitment to the oncology community and our belief in the overall health and wellness promoted by exercise," said Mark Reisenauer, vice president of oncology marketing and sales at Astellas. "The team's management has put together a great roster of riders. We wish them the best of luck this season and hope that they reach their dreams of becoming professional cyclists."

ABD Cycling, an organization designed to develop cyclists into elite riders, is the presenting team sponsor. ABD Cycling will provide the team with bicycles, shoes, helmets, and branded clothing. "ABD Cycling has a long history of developing riders and this opportunity allows us to take the riders to a new level," said Mike Farrell, president of ABD Cycling.

The team is also partnering with CancerCare, a cancer advocacy group focused on providing free, professional support for anyone affected by cancer. "We are excited to be part of this unique opportunity provided by Astellas to raise awareness about CancerCare's free, professional support services not only to the oncology community, but also to the general public," said Helen Miller, CEO of CancerCare.

The 2012 Astellas Oncology Cycling Team includes the following riders.

• Zach Bergh, 21, from Dripping Springs, Texas
• Brandon Feehery, 20, from Homewood, Illinois
• Matt Gorter, 27, from Hamilton, New Zealand
• Daniel J. Harm, 28, from Seattle, Washington
• Nick Inabinet, 24, from Boone, North Carolina
• Joey Iuliano, 24, from West Lafayette, Indiana
• Adam Kaye, 24, from Ann Arbor, Michigan
• Bryan McVey, 27, Naperville, Illinois
• Jake Rytlewski, 30, from Brownsburg, Indiana
• Hogan Sills, 22, from Champaign, Illinois
• Cory St.Clair, 21, from Cincinnati, Ohio
• Andre Vandenberg, 21, from Boone, North Carolina

About Astellas
Astellas Pharma US, Inc., located in Deerfield, Illinois, is a U.S. affiliate of Tokyo-based Astellas Pharma Inc. Astellas is a pharmaceutical company dedicated to improving the health of people around the world through the provision of innovative and reliable pharmaceutical products. For more information about Astellas Pharma US, Inc., please visit our website at www.astellas.us.

About ABD Cycling
The Athletes By Design (ABD) Cycling Club has grown to be one of the largest clubs in the Midwest. Founded in 1998 and originally focused on the development of Junior riders, ABD has now grown to include riders of all ages. Today, the club works to develop riders of all ages and abilities and promote the growth of the sport of cycling through the numerous events they organize. In addition to sponsoring the Astellas Oncology Cycling Team ABD also sponsors former Junior National Champion Jessi Prinner, 2011 Illinois Cup Junior winner Konrad Witt and 2011 C5 National Pursuit Champion Joe Berenyi. Visit us on the web at www.abdcycling.com

About CancerCare
CancerCare provides free, professional support services to individuals, families, caregivers, and the bereaved to help them better cope with and manage the emotional and practical challenges arising from cancer. Our services include counseling and support groups, educational publications and workshops, and financial assistance. All of our services are provided by professional oncology social workers and are offered completely free of charge.

Founded in 1944, CancerCare is a national nonprofit organization that helps more than 110,000 individuals and families in all 50 states each year, and receives more than one million visits to our websites. To speak directly with a CancerCare social worker, call 800‑813‑HOPE (4673). Or visit www.cancercare.org.

SOURCE Astellas Pharma US, Inc.