Army SSG Michael Gallagher to Race World Cup 'Cross
22 Dec 05

Michael Gallagher has been named to the roster of U.S. cyclocross athletes who will compete in World Cup 'cross races 26 and 31 December in Belgium.

His recent performance at the U.S. National Championships where he placed 11th after starting dead last, in 116th position, made some head's turn and take notice. When he followed it up with a 9th place finish in the following day's Liberty Cup race, he confirmed that he was among the best of U.S. 'cross riders.

A good result at the U.S. Nationals was Michael's main goal this season. He didn't know the national championships would be just the start! In the middle of a move from Germany to Washington State, he is literally living out of two suitcases and two bike boxes. He's already moved out of his apartment and into the military barracks and he's found friends to take him in for as long as he can stretch this successful season.

When the information came from USA Cycling that Michael could have a U.S. starting position in the next two World Cup races, he was very grateful for the opportunity to race at this next level. "Success at nationals was a primary goal this season" said Gallagher, "but I don't plan to rest now. Keeping focus and maintaining fitness is now on the top of my priority list. I want to represent the U.S. Armed Forces well at the World Cup events." He participated in two local cross races this past weekend to help shake off the jet lag and get back to the routine of European 'cross racing. He placed 12th (Schmeltz) and 9th (Homburg) and was happy with his performance and World Cup preparation. Upon return from the U.S. last week, Gallagher had to return to work as a Computer Systems Administrator with the Army Reserves. He also had to complete final exams for his college courses and continue to outprocess from his unit. With most distractions now behind him, Gallagher can focus on the upcoming World Cup races.

Since nationals was going to wrap up the major races of Michael's season, he had no plan for new bikes until next year. However, the bikes he was riding were not in good shape and didn't give him the confidence he needed to race at a higher level. Upon hearing of Gallagher's bike situation and opportunity to race the World Cup, Armed Forces Team bike sponsor, Flyte, offered sponsorship with a couple of matching Flyte cross bikes. "Flyte stepped in to fill this gap without hesitation" said Debra Ponzio, Armed Forces Team Manager, "they normally sponsor our road athletes but the team at Flyte is a vital part of our program and they are commited to help the success of Armed Forces Cycling and our military athletes. We really appreciate their support for Michael."

Complete information about World Cup Cyclocross events can be found at the Union Cycliste Internationale web site: www.uci.ch