Johnson wins Stars and Stripes in Roanoke

Cooper Johnson took home the biggest win of his young career yesterday after attacking solo with 60km to go in the 187km road race at the U23 national road race championships in Roanoke, Virginia on June 30. The Tennessee native spent the rest of the race time trialing ahead of the peloton, that was successfully shut down by the rest of the Aevolo squad. 

 

“It’s really good and amazing,” director Mike Creed said. “Obviously Cooper really deserves this. He’s had a really long and hard year and never backed down from any race or challenge. I’m really proud of him and really happy for him.”

 

Johnson finished the five-hour race three minutes ahead of the bunch, and at times during the latter part of the stage, enjoyed a gap of up to four minutes. 

 

“The race was beautiful for the Aevolo cycling boys,” Johnson said. “We stacked the lead group with two laps to go with five guys, and I hit out shortly after that. The boys kept it looked down and I finished the deal. I still can’t believe it’s real. A big thanks to our director, Mike Creed, all the staff and our great sponsors and my teammates.” 

 

The day before, Jared Scott took home second in the U23 time trial, finishing the 32km course with a time of 38:03, just 12 seconds off the pace of the winner. 

 

The final race of this year’s US Amateur National Championship is the criterium, where another opportunity for the Stars and Stripes lays in wait. It won’t be live streamed, however, USA Cycling are providing live updates on Twitter and Instagram (@USACycling). The U23 race starts at 4:30 p.m. ET and lasts 70 minutes.