Dr. Mike is the 2009 U.S. National Champion!
(June 30, 2009) Here's the official press release from USA Cycling about the National Road Race in Louisville, KY.
The 35-39 master men’s race got things off to an exciting start on the final day of road racing in Louisville’s Cherokee Park with an early race break that held for the first five of 12 laps. The stacked young field including two-time, reigning national champion Paul Martin (North Royalton, Ohio/Texas Roadhouse), however reeled back the solo break, after a untimely mechanical. It was then that Martin saw an opportunity to make his move. Recognizing Martin’s strength however the field would not let him get away. Through a fast and furious last few laps it was Michael Onkels (Glendale, Calif./Sho-air-Sonace) who was able to put some distance between him and the pack. After racing for 22-years, the 39-year old secured his first national title, soloing to the gold 42 seconds ahead of the main group. “I tried to make up time on the hills and by not braking in the corners,” said Onkels who was 15th in the road race here last year. “When we got close to the finish I just drilled it. It was perfect for me – that’s the way I like to win.”