We posted Joe Smiths video CV on the Dirt a while ago, seems like it did the trick because he’s just been signed up by Kona for 2009.

Here’s the full story:

18 year-old UK ripper, Joe Smith kick-starts Kona’s Downhill Team.
Kona Bikes welcomes Montgomery UK’s Joe Smith to the 2009 Kona Factory DH Team.
As a three-time Junior Welsh National Champ, and 2008 IXS European series winner, Joe’s racing record is impressive. A top 18 overall position at the Schladming World-Cup, top five as a Junior at Schladming, Bromont, Mont-Sainte-Anne, Fort William, and Valnord World Cups demonstrates Joe has what it takes to be a contending DH pro.

He’s quick, and with the right support from Kona this year he’s only going to get quicker. Joe will be riding a factory tricked Stab Supreme with Saint groupo. One of the big selling features of the young rider is that he likes all aspects of riding bikes, from XC to trailbuilding, a big deal over here at Kona, where all our staff ride day in day out.
“He was mentored by Tracy Moseley as a young buck so it’s quite a natural transition, one we hope will re-energize the Kona DH program,” says Smiley Nesbitt, Kona’s Team Manager.

Professional coaching with winter training focused on developing Joe’s strength conditioning and race preparation will undoubtedly bear great results next season. Kona is looking forward to seeing Joe on the podium next summer.
For more about Kona Bikes and the Clump visit konaworld.com
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downhill mountain biker Joe Smith signs for Kona for 2009