It is with much sadness that we bid adieu to the nicest man in mountain biking with the meanest whip - Bernardo Cruz. When we met Bernardo in 2010 we immediately fell in love with him, and felt like he had to be a part of the GT family. At the time he was racing WC's and killing the whip game but was rapidly becoming the face of gravity cycling in Brazil. Over the years Nardo became a global household name, a skilled racer, whip master and a hero of urban DH. It has truly been many years of Good Times with Nardo, and we are devastated to see him go, but we know it's his time to move on to a bright new future.
Adeus e Obrigado Bernardo Cruz!
"Bernardo has always been our little Brazilian brother with the biggest heart. Full of positivity and willing to help anyone at any time he is one of the most genuine and selfless people you will ever meet. But behind the humble smile and calm demeanor is one of the nastiest whips in the game and smooth style. Every moment spent with Nardo has been memorable and will greatly miss chasing him around. Much love amigo and all the best in your future." -Steve 'Coach' Spencer, Sports Marketing Manager
"Nardo! I feel like it was just yesterday when we first met in Whistler in 2011!
Incredible how fast time passes, from our many laps in Whistler to an incredibly memorable ride in Les Gets in summer 2018 (one of my first big rides back from my injury!). Thank you for being an incredible athlete, friend, and ambassador for the sport. I’ve always admired your ability to make time for everyone and treat everyone with kindness. We are all lucky to have worked with you for so many years.
Change is progress and inevitable in many ways! Stoked to hear about the next chapter of your career. We’ll always cherish the moments we’ve had and looking forward to seeing you putting many more smiles on people's faces." -Andrew Cho
"Bernardo it’s always been a good time together! Our time at Valpo last year was nothing but good times and I’m going to miss you on GT, now I’ve gotta make it to Brazil to check out your epic spot and help with some coaching one day. All the best for your new endeavors bro, awesome to see you pushing the sport so well in Brazil!" -Wyn Masters
"Great Nardini! I still remember the first time I saw you hit Crabapple in Whistler...and I was like damn, that Brazilian kid can whip better than all of us, and we're all f*cked! Didn't know that we'd end up on the same team at some point, and once we got to ride together more you quickly became one of my favorite people to get sideways with and share a good laugh. Bummed to see you leave the GT fam but I'm stoked for what you have to come, and I hope to crack some whips with you sometime soon amigo!" -Tyler McCaul
"It was such a hard decision to change because I can honestly say that GT was super important to help myself to have my house, my car, to build up my life. I just have to say thanks and to be thankful for all of these years, to all of these good moments and good memories. You guys for sure make part of my history and this is going to be forever.
The best thing about GT for me is that it's not just about good results it's about having fun with the bikes, having fun with friends. This for me means love because when we love bikes we just have good times and good moments with friends. This is the most important thing about GT. You don't have to be the fastest guy or the best guy you just have to have your bike, have good times with friends, and enjoy the moment. That's why I love GT so much." -Bernardo Cruz
We love you too Nardo. Boa Sortel!