Singapore: Novo Nordisk is going to form an unique group of atheletes called Team Novo Nordisk. This will be a global sports team with more than 100 cyclists, triathletes and runners, all of whom have diabetes. The team will be spearheaded by the world's first all-diabetes pro-cycling team.

Team Novo Nordisk will use life's experiences and competitiveness to motivate people affected by diabetes. Throughout 2013, these athletes will compete in more than 500 sporting competitions around the world. The men's pro-cycling team will compete in races such as the US Pro Cycling Challenge, the Tour of Britain and the Paris-Tours, with the ultimate goal of joining the Tour de France.

"As part of our long-standing Changing Diabetes program, this partnership provides a tremendous opportunity to raise awareness, and educate, empower and inspire people with diabetes," said Mr Jakob Riis, senior vice president, global marketing and global medical affairs, Novo Nordisk. "This is yet another way Novo Nordisk is striving to create more opportunities to live well with diabetes."

Mr Phil Southerland founded what was known as 'Team Type 1' in 2005 and included riders and athletes with and without diabetes until this year. The new Team Novo Nordisk will only comprise of athletes who have diabetes and will continue to grow the team mission "to instil hope and inspiration for people around the world affected by diabetes".

"As Team Novo Nordisk we want to show the world what is possible with great diabetes control. Between us, Team Novo Nordisk has over 1,000 diagnozed years of diabetes with no complications and we stand for what life with diabetes can be like," Mr Southerland said. "Exercise is that billion dollar drug that nobody ever gets prescribed, and in my experience is the best of them all. With appropriate diet, exercise, treatment and technology, anyone with diabetes can achieve their dreams."