American Mike Friedman declared winner of 3-stage pro men's race
Officials of the second annual Alexian Brothers Tour of Elk Grove cycling event, held August 11 and 12 in Elk Grove Village, are expressing their disappointment over the recently announced drug test results of Australian Nathan O'Neill (pictured left) who was the overall winner of the event's 3-stage pro men's race.

O'Neill was terminated October 29 from the Health Net Pro Cycling Team presented by Maxxis following confirmation of a second positive test (B sample) for the prescription appetite suppressant Phentermine. According to UCI/WADA (Union Cycliste Internationale/World Anti- Doping Agency) code, riders can legally use Phentermine out of competition with a prescription. However, there may be no trace amounts of the appetite suppressant in a rider's system during competition.

Tour of Elk Grove officials have now declared Mike Friedman, a member of Team Slipstream powered by Chipolte, as the new winner of the 2007 event's 3-stage men's pro race.

"We're obviously disappointed but we will continue to be aggressive about testing and holding our riders to the highest possible standards," said Elk Grove Mayor Craig Johnson, who also serves as Director of Tour of Elk Grove. As a result, O'Neill has returned his $33,500 prize money (which will be redistributed to other 2007 top winners). He will also be banned for life from racing in the event.

The 2008 Tour of Elk Grove race dates are Friday through Sunday, August 1 to 3. For more information visit www.tourofelkgrove.com