November 1, 2008:  O'Neill still battling but able to race in 2009
Courtesy Cyclingnews.com

BRASELTON, GA - "...With the problems between him and the ASADA seemingly behind him, the bigger problem is finding a ride for next season."...more

# # #

Nathan O’Neill was on hand to host the live streaming video, interviews, and play by play at the
2008 Greenville Hospital System USA Cycling Professional Road Race Championships
live from Greenville SC. - © Bob DeLong

June 19, 2008:  Final Award Rendered by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) for Nathan O'Neill

SYDNEY, AU - Read the Honorary Justice Jeffrey Spencer's (CAS) final award on the Nathan O'Neill suspension here.

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June 18, 2008:  O'Neill satisfied with CAS outcome
Courtesy Cyclingnews.com

SYDNEY, AU - Australia's Nathan O'Neill is satisfied with the outcome of his Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) appeal, which sees him able to return to the sport on November 12....more

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Tour de Georgia presented by AT&T 2008: 

The roads of Brasstown Bald showed support for Nathan - © Lizzie DeLong

Nathan rides Brasstown Bald prior to the race for a commentary on the difficulty of
Stage 6 during his online telecast - © Lizzie DeLong

April 24, 2008:  N2 a Cure Charity Ride with Special Guest Nathan O'Neill a huge success!

BRASELTON, GA: Special Guest 8-Time Australian National Time Trial Champion Nathan O'Neill led out the N2 a Cure Charity Ride Presented by Cafe:ine and Syzygy Graphics to benefit the Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Raising over $4,000 to its cause, the event was held in conjunction with Stage 4 of the 2008 Tour de Georgia presented by AT&T on the track at Road Atlanta.

Special Guest 8-Time Australian National Time Trial Champion Nathan O'Neill led out thee
N2 a Cure Charity Ride to benefit the Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta - © Mia Sullivan

Nathan O'Neill and Georgia's Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle - © Lizzie DeLong

April 19-27, 2008:  Nathan O'Neill to be featured commentator for the 2008 edition of Tour de Georgia presented by AT&T

Atlanta, GA: Nathan O’Neill, 8-Time Australian National Time Trial Champion, will co-host the live internet feed during the 2008 Tour de Georgia presented by AT&T. In addition, Nathan will be featured nightly on SportsSouth Television where he will co-host the nightly race recap show.

November 07, 2007:  Nathan's Personal Statement Concerning B Sample Confirmation of Adverse Analytical Finding

BRASELTON, GA: Nathan O’Neill confirmed that a B Sample from an in-competition test at the Tour of Elk Grove (Aug. 12, 2007) does show a detectable amount of the appetite suppressant Phentermine. The substance is permitted for out-of-competition use, per the rules of WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency).

In a statement issued today, O’Neill accepted responsibility saying, “I admit that I used the medicine for the prescribed purpose, in an out-of-competition situation. Unfortunately for me, there was a tiny amount that was still present in my body at the time the sample was collected in competition. We are certain that this did not constitute a stimulant effect, but I do understand that there will be repercussions for this misjudgment. I sincerely apologize to my Health Net team, my sponsors and my fans for this embarrassing situation.”

O’Neill was informed of the A Sample analysis on September 23, 2007. O’Neill’s case will be presented before a panel from the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) in the coming weeks. He is an 8-time Australian National Time Trial Champion from Queensland, and currently resides in Braselton, Georgia. He said he was prepared to present the facts of this case so that the situation could be clarified.

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September 13, 2007:  Tour of Missouri Stage 3 -O'Neill  Second!

BRANSON, MO: "It’s the sort of course that if you are good, you know it straight away, and if your legs are good, you find your rhythm right away" stated Health Net Presented by Maxxis' Nathan O'Neill prior to today's Individual Time Trial. O'Neill found his rhythm and powered over the rolling hills to a second place finish, just seconds behind Discovery Channel's Levi Leipheimer and showing the crowds why he is the Australian National Time Trial Champion.

O'Neill and Leipheimer were the only two riders breaking the 40 minute barrier for the course. This moves Nathan significantly up in the General Classification to #14

September 11, 2007:  Tour of Missouri Opener

KANSAS CITY, MO: Nathan O'Neill sits comfortably in the GC at 33rd place after the finish of Stage 1 of the inaugural Tour of Missouri. Just 10 seconds out, O'Neill is poised and ready for Thursday's Time Trial.

September 2, 2007:  Companies eye wind-win situation for cyclists
Courtesy Kelli Lackett, Coloradoan.com

FORT COLLINS, CO: "...At the grand opening of the wind tunnel at the northeast Fort Collins warehouse of Ambient Air Technology, pro cyclist Nathan O'Neill is changing into his cycling jersey.

Why the eight-time Australian National Time Trial champion is suiting up for a training ride in this inconspicuous place becomes clear if you head up the stairs and lay eyes on the 180-foot long state-of-art cycling wind tunnel"...more

August 12, 2007:  Tour of Elk Grove in the Bag, O'Neill Wins Overall!

ELK GROVE, IL: Nathan O'Neill's opening prologue performance solidified his position in the overall standings of the 2007 edition of the Tour of Elk Grove and even with 2 stages heavy in time bonuses, O'Neill was able to ride solid and keep his losses to a minimum to obtain the overall win.

August 11, 2007:  O'Neill on Top Again - Blazes Tour of Elk Grove Opener

ELK GROVE, IL: Riding for Team Health Net Presented by Maxxis, Nathan O'Neill opened today's 2007 Tour of Elk Grove Prologue with an impressive win to start out this 3 stage event. The short course would not usually suit O'Neill's style, but the Australian National Time Trial Champion pushed a big gear on the flats to out power the competition.

July 23, 2007:  Health Net Wins Tour de Toona Team Time Trial Opener - Nathan O'Neill in Leader's Jersey

ALTOONA, PA: Team Health Net Presented by Maxxis led by Australian National Time Trial Champion Nathan O'Neill dominated today's opening stage of the 2007 edition of Tour de Toona. "...the conditions were perfect, we took it fast" stated O'Neill who crossed the line first to garner the Leader's Jersey. Health Net will defend the jersey in tomorrow's Calmbrook road race.

June 22, 2007:  Nathan O'Neill Wins Nature Valley Grand Prix St. Paul Riverfront Time Trial

ST. PAUL, MN: Keeping in form, Nathan O'Neill continued his winning streak with a number one finish in this morning's St. Paul Riverfront Time Trial. Hot on his trail was Priority Health rider Ben Jacques-Mayne, who could not make up the 3 second difference and finished 2nd to O'Neill.

"We'll be drilling it again tonight" stated O'Neill who moves up to #2 in the General Classification, just 6 seconds behind Toyota-United's Ivan Stevic.

June 22, 2007:  Nature Valley Grand Prix Stage 1&2 Summary - O'Neill Ready for Time Trial

MINNEAPOLIS, MN: After 2 days of racing, Health Net Presented by Maxxis rider Nathan O'Neill sits at #16 in the General Classification for the 2007 Edition of the Nature Valley Grand Prix. O'Neill is just 25 seconds off Race Leader and teammate Kirk O'Bee.

A strong performance in today's St. Paul Riverfront Time Trial could put Nathan in the Leader's Jersey.

June 3, 2007:  Mount Hood Cycling Classic Final -  O'Neill Repeats Last Year's Performance and Wins Overall

HOOD RIVER, OR:  They say that history repeats itself and today's 6th place finish by Nathan O'Neill was enough to secure his 2nd consecutive victory in the Mount Hood Cycling Classic. O'Neill retained his 5 second lead over Phil ZajiceK (Navigators) in this 6 day grueling event, and that was enough for him to win the Overall General Classification. O'Neill looks to be on track for the upcoming Nature Valley Grand Prix after getting a late start this season.

June 1, 2007:  Mount Hood Cycling Classic Stage 4 -  Scenic Gorge Time Trial...Nathan O'Neill Smokes Time Trial and takes over Leader's Jersey

HOOD RIVER, OR:  For the second year in a row Nathan O'Neill has dominated today's Scenic Gorge Time Trial with only Phil Zajicek (Navigators) within striking distance. Race leader Ben Jacques-Maynes lost 43 seconds and O'Neill will start tomorrow's Wy'East Road Race, an epic stage finishing on the summit of Mt. Hood, in the race Leader's Jersey.

May 31, 2007:  Mount Hood Cycling Classic Stage 3 -  Cooper Spur Circuit Race...O'Neill 3rd Overall at end of Day

HOOD RIVER, OR:  Finishing today's stage in 4th place, Health Net Presented by Maxxis' Nathan O'Neill showed everyone why he is a marked man going into tomorrow's Scenic Gorge Time Trial as he rode to close the gap on Navigator's Glen Chadwick and limit his losses to Ben Jacques-Maynes (Priority  Health/Bissell) and Phil Zajicek (Navigators). With 17 seconds to make up, O'Neill stated "I've not felt well all week and tomorrow is arguably the most scenic time trial I've ever ridden. I won't be able to enjoy it...but, I will be ripping it as fast as I can."

May 30, 2007:  UPDATED -Mount Hood Cycling Classic Stage 2 -  Columbia Hills Road Race...Nathan O'Neill 2nd Overall at end of Day

HOOD RIVER, OR:  With the winner's 15 second time bonus, Ben Jacques-Maynes (Priority  Health/Bissell) edged out Nathan O'Neill by 7 seconds in today's Columbia Hills Road Race to take over the Leader's Jersey in the Mt. Hood Cycling Classic. O'Neill remains 2nd Overall after Stage 2 and Health Net Presented by Maxxis retains the Overall Team Classification.

Wednesday's brutal Cooper Spur Circuit Race will be the first big test of the riders’ fitness and climbing prowess.

May 29, 2007:  REVISED: "To Err is Human"...Mount Hood Cycling Classic - Panorama Point Prologue...O'Neill 1st!!!

HOOD RIVER, OR: Today's opening Prologue placed defending champ Nathan O'Neill (Health Net presented by Maxxis) just 12 seconds behind surprise leader Devon Vigus (California Giant/Specialized) but an error in time calculation by race officials caused Vigus' placing to be revised. Race officials turned over the Leader's Jersey today to Nathan O'Neill who will start Stage 2 in the Overall Lead.

Team Health Net starts out number one in the team classification and poised to control the week of racing.

May 6, 2007:  Tour of the Gila Stage 5 Final - Hesjedal Drills it...Nathan O'Neill Wins Overall Title!

SILVER CITY, NM: Riding tempo for most of the last 40 KM Health Net's Ryder Hesjedal covered every move to protect teammate Nathan O'Neill and launch O'Neill to an impressive 6th place finish today ensuring that O'Neill took home the Overall Leader title of the 2007 Tour of the Gila.

O'Neill summed up the week "The boys were awesome, and kept me out of trouble all week... Ryder was especially incredible today... the final 40km was over two major climbs, and we were whittled down to an elite group of 11 riders.....only him and I were left from HealthNet... He just put it in stun mode and rode like a machine for the final 40km on the front... no one could even step off the wheel to attack...Unbelievable!!"

Hesjedal finished 7 Overall and Health Net Presented by Maxxis finished 3 in the Overall Team Classification.

May 5, 2007:  Tour of the Gila Stage 3 & 4 - O'Neill rides Protected, Healthnet Reels in the Break.

SILVER CITY, NM: Coming to the front, Team Health Net chased down the breakaway to within 5 seconds from the line protecting Nathan O'Neill's Leader's jersey in Stage 3's Inner Loop Road Race.

In Saturday's Silver City Criterium, O'Neill rode much of the race near the front staying out of trouble and finishing in the field sprint.

With one day of racing to go, O'Neill remains number one in the GC with his closest rival, Chris Baldwin (Toyota-United) 1'59" behind. Sunday's Gila Monster Road Race finishes at the end of a Category 4 climb.

May 3, 2007:  Tour of the Gila Stage 2 - O'Neill takes 2nd, Health Net Dominates.

SILVER CITY, NM: Team Health Net Presented by Maxxis rose to the occasion as they defended the leader's jersey of teammate Nathan O'Neill in today's Stage 2 of the Tour of the Gila. Their efforts enabled a 2nd place finish for O'Neill after battling the final 5.5 mile Category 1 climb up the narrow alpine road.

"The guys were awesome today" stated O'Neill. "They rode like a machine...I've got great teammates here!"

Health Net will again defend the Leader's Jersey in tomorrow's Stage 3 Inner Loop Road Race, a 64.2 mile point-to-point course finishing with 4,595' of climbing.

May 2, 2007:  O'Neill Crushes Tour of the Gila Time Trial and Sets New Course Record!

SILVER CITY, NM: Health Net Presented by Maxxis rider Nathan O'Neill scorched the pavement in Silver City today as he set the new course record for the Dan Potts Memorial Tyrone Individual Time Trial Stage of the 21st Annual Tour of the Gila. "Conditions were good today...I'm carrying good form from the Tour de Georgia..." stated O'Neill. "Yesterday our trip here was awful with travel delay after delay, today was the most fun time trial I've ridden...It's good having form."

O'Neill will be defending the Leader's Jersey in tomorrow's road race from Silver City to Mogollon. The stage is 94 miles long with 5,650' of climbing, much of it in the last 35 miles.

April 22, 2007:  Tour de Georgia Wraps Up to Packed House, O'Neill Shows He's Ready

ATLANTA, GA: Huge crowds lined the streets of Atlanta as Stage 7 and the 2007 Tour de Georgia came to a close. Heath Net Presented by Maxxis rider Kirk O'Bee and Jittery Joe's Cesar Grajales held off the charging peloton but were absorbed with only 6 km to go. In a drag race to the finish JJ Haedo (CSC) beat Freddy Rodriguez (Predictor Lotto) to the line for the win.

Health Net's Nathan O'Neill finished 14th in the Overall General Classification feeling strong and confident that he has returned to form and is ready to race for the remainder of the season.

April 21, 2007:  O'Neill Solid...Healthnet Open for Business

STONE MOUNTAIN, GA: A little over an hour into today's stage, it was evident that Team Health Net Presented by Maxxis was out for business. Karl Menzies (Health Net) had already won the sprint with teammate Rory Sutherland (Health Net) on his wheel, and Nathan O'Neill (Health Net) was in a 22 man breakaway that included the likes of Tom Danielson (Discovery), Ivan Stevic (Toyota United), and Dave Zabriskie (CSC). The danger of the break was eminent and after learning from some tactical mistakes in Stage 3, the group quickly got absorbed by the chase.

With 500 meters to go, the Health Net train led out and triggered a field sprint which resulted in a photo finish giving Freddie Rodriguez (Predictor Lotto) the win. Menzies finished safely 7th.

With no more KOM's in the remaining stage, Ryder Hesjedal(Health Net) will retain that jersey in the overall classification as long as he finishes Sunday's stage. Nathan O'Neill finished solidly in the peloton and retains his 14th place GC classification. Health Net remains #2 in the Team Classification with one stage to go.

April 20, 2007:  O'Neill Finishes Fourth on Brasstown Bald

BRASSTOWN BALD, GA: When Gilberto Simoni (Saunier Duval - Prodir), Tom Danielson (Discovery Channel), and Levi Leipheimer (Discovery Channel) broke away from the peloton early on the foot of Brasstown Bald, little did they know that Nathan O'Neill would be along for the ride.

With 150 meters to go, Simoni attacked and O'Neill countered, unleashing a vicious attack on the Italian. At the line, O'Neill narrowly missed a spot on podium as Anthony Colby (Colavita/Sutter Home) edged him out for 3rd. O'Neill finished at 1'06" behind Stage winner Levi Leipheimer and moves up to 14 in the GC. Teammate Ryder Hesjedal ended the day with the final KOM jersey of the Tour de Georgia.

Healthnet Presented by Maxxis remain #2 in the overall Team Classification after today's stage.

April 19, 2007: "I'm ready to play my cards"...Nathan O'Neill Finishes Third on Lookout Mountain

LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, TN: His goal today was to "See Rock City" and "rock" the city was what he did. Nathan O'Neill's granite performance placed him 3rd in today's Individual Time Trial from Chickamauga, GA to Lookout Mountain, TN and earned himself a trip to the podium

"It's been a while since I've seen the podium" stated O'Neill in a reference to his delayed season start due to a string of unfortunate accidents off the bike. Today's effort proved that O'Neill is indeed back. When asked about yesterdays stage and his GC hopes O'Neill replied "I was motivated...when the GC went south yesterday for all the favorites, I figured let's throw it in today and see what happens...so that worked out!

Finishing third today behind Levi Leipheimer (Discovery) and Dave Zabriskie (CSC) and riding with a staph infection as a result from the 60 stitches he received in his left arm earlier this month was a statement to his perseverance and dedication as a cyclist. His effort moved him up to 15 in the GC.

Special Note: Check back for upcoming video footage of Nathan O'Neill as he assaults the Lookout Mountain Time Trial

April 18, 2007: Tour de Georgia - Nathan O'Neill Answers our questions
Courtesy DailyPeloton.com

CHATTANOOGA, TN: Nathan O'Neill of Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis gives us a view of the field into what happened in the Tour de Georgia Stage 3 when the GC classification was turned upside down. The field let a group of thirteen riders get away and the break managed to amass a 29 minute gap by the time they finished, introducing new names as contenders for the overall classification...more

April 18, 2007: Breakaway Sticks and Mixes Things Up...Tour de Georgia Wrap-up -Stage 3...

CHATTANOOGA, TN: A 13 man breakaway went up the road today while no team in the peloton would come forward to chase. In an unexpected move, the breakaway put 29 minutes into a gap that stuck until the race end. Healthnet presented by Maxxis had both Tim Johnson and Jeff Louder in the break. Tim drove the break and put some space between the wheels on the 3rd KOM to gain today's Most Aggressive Rider jersey and Louder took both the 1st and 2nd KOM points and then followed Johnson as the 3rd up KOM #3 moving him to #1 in the Overall Mountains Classification. Things look good for Nathan O'Neill in tomorrow's Individual Time Trial up Lookout Mountain as the course suits his style well.

April 17, 2007: O'Neill Moving Up...Tour de Georgia Wrap-up -Stage 2...

ROME, GA: Driving the peloton, Healthnet gobbled up Navigator's Glen Chadwick on his solo breakaway as the group climbed the infamous "Clock Tower Hill". On the second approach to the hill, Nathan O'Neill and teammate Ryder Hesjedal launched an attach which garnered 3 KOM points for Nathan. O'Neill finished 20th in today's stage and moves up the GC by one notch to #24 at 1'22". Healthnet Presented by Maxxis remain #2 in the overall Team Classification.

As the Tour moves into the mountains tomorrow, the next few days could be definitive in how the GC will play out.

April 16, 2007: O'Neill Ready...Tour de Georgia Wrap-up -Stage 1...

PEACHTREE CITY, GA: You'd never know that his domestic season is just starting, but from the lean looks of Team Healthnet Presented by Maxxis' Nathan O'Neill, you can tell O'Neill is ready to battle whatever and whoever is thrown at him. "I'm ready" he responded to race announcer Dave Towle at sign in, and today's stage would allow him to see how his body, recovering from 2 early season accidents, would react to race conditions.

The pace was fast and furious and at Macon today, O'Neill finished strong at number 25 (1'07") in the GC. It was a stellar day for Healthnet Presented by Maxxis, with teammate Doug Ollerenshaw on the podium in 2nd place, and the team #2 in the Team Classification.

March 28, 2007: Nathan O'Neill talks about his recent accident and injuries...
Courtesy VeloNews.com

BRASELTON, GA: Nathan chats with VeloNews Senior Writer Neal Rodgers on VeloNews Audio Podcast # 17

March 14, 2007: Highway Accident injures Tour de Georgia Representatives

CARTERSVILLE, GA: Australian Cyclist Nathan O'Neill, Jackie Tyson, Dir of Communications for Tour de Georgia, and Judy Staton, Georgia Cancer Coalition, March 14, 2007: Highway Accident injures Tour de Georgia Representatives

CARTERSVILLE, GA: Australian Cyclist Nathan O'Neill, Jackie Tyson, Dir of Communications for Tour de Georgia, and Judy Staton, Georgia Cancer Coalition, were traveling southbound on I-75 Tuesday returning from a Tour de Georgia press conference in Chattanooga when the SUV they were driving in was apparently bumped from the rear causing it to crash into the left guard rail and flip over 4-5 times on the guard rail. The driver's side roof collapsed.

The accident happened just north of Cartersville. The EMT crews working out of the Hospital were very courteous and professional as they assessed the scene quickly upon arrival At one time, there were as many as three helicopters enroute. Nathan was stable enough for ground transport to Cartersville, but unfortunately, two of the helicopters had to be used for air evacuation to Atlanta.

O'Neill was released out of the Cartersville Hospital around 8:00pm. He received over 60 stitches in his left forearm and has some bruising, a knot on his head. and facial lacerations from flying glass. He will be following up with a surgeon in 7 days to check over the arm, but his recovery should be relatively fast. Unfortunately, this will take him out of the Redlands Classic Bike Race and may be a small setback in his bid for the Tour de Georgia in April. In January, O'Neill was hit by a car on a training ride and that incident removed him from the Tour of California roster.

Judy Staton is stable and recovering in an Atlanta hospital and Jackie Tyson is still in intensive care with extensive injuries and head trauma. "Jackie's Forerunner is an unbelievable fortification for the seat belt rule. Without them, their story would be very different." stated John Karr, LOC Dev.Committee, at the scene.

We ask that you keep your thoughts and prayers going strongly for Jackie and Judy.

January 25, 2007: Top cyclist walks away from crash
Courtesy The Toowoomba Chronicle

TOOWOOMBA, AU - TIME froze for Toowoomba cyclist and Commonwealth Games gold medallist Nathan O'Neill at 1.40pm yesterday. The 32-year-old had nearly finished his training ride around the streets of Toowoomba when he was involved in a collision with a car at the Perth and Ramsay streets roundabout.

O'Neill was thrown from his bike and landed heavily on the bitumen. He was taken to St Vincent's Hospital but was released a few hours later after X-rays revealed no broken bones or internal injuries. O'Neill has been left with bruises and cuts to his body, but knows it could have been much worse...more

January 12, 2007: Eight is great for O'Neill... Queenslander sets new course record with win
Courtesy Cyclingnews.com

BALLARAT, AU - Unlike yesterday's women's time trial, defending champion Nathan O'Neill (Qld) had no trouble in adding an eighth title to his resume, winning the 2007 elite men's time trial. To give the crowd something to watch, O'Neill set a blistering pace, breaking the course record, going under fifty minutes by twenty-five seconds...more

January 12, 2007: Nathan O'Neill wins 8th Australian National Time Trial Championship!!!!

BALLARAT, AU - Defending a national title is a feat in itself, yet claiming that title for the 8th time, as Queensland native Nathan O'Neill did today, proves that O'Neill means business in 2007. Finishing more than a minute ahead of the next closest rider, he once again proved that solid preparation and dedication is the key to his success.

Discover Adventures P.R.O. Series™ CHEAT THE WIND Time Trial Camp with Nathan O'Neill
Dates Set May 16-20 and June 13-17, 2007!

CHARLOTTE, NC - Nathan O'Neill demands every possible advantage. So should you. If one of your annual cycling goals is to improve upon your benchmark TT PR, spend time with Nathan to learn how he prepares mentally, nutritionally, mechanically and physically for each race against the clock. Nathan will present a scientific and regimented perspective on how to perform your best TT! Camp includes include the ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE FOR ANY DEDICATED TIME TRIALIST - A WIND TUNNEL EVALUATION. Space is limited, for additional information and registration click here.

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January 10, 2007:  Nathan's new record possible
Courtesy Cyclingnews.com

BALLARAT, AU - While the men's road race is unlikely to be a repeat of 2006, there is a degree of certainty in the men's individual time trial, with Queenslander Nathan O'Neill (Health Net) lining up once again in the men's individual time trial, an event that the talented Queenslander has won seven times...more

October 23, 2006:  For 2007, Youth Brings Experience for Health Net Presented by Maxxis.
Courtesy Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis

OAKLAND, CA - 2007 will not be a re-building year for the Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis. "It will be more like a re-birth," states Team Directeur Sportif Jeff Corbett, noting that the re-shaped squad will more resemble the first two NRC championship teams of 2004 and 2005. "We're going to have a lot of big, powerful guys on the squad. You're going to see a lot less 52 cm Cannondales underneath our guys this year."

With the departure of long-time veterans Gord Fraser, Mike Sayers and Scott Moninger, the team will see a youth movement in 2007. "Our oldest guy will be Nathan O'Neill," Corbett said, "and he'll only be 32"...more

September 18, 2006: Lydia Elaine O'Neill Crosses Finish Line
Courtesy Pelotonsports.net

ATLANTA, GA - 2006 Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist and seven-time Australian National Time Trial Champion, Nathan O’Neill, became a first-time father on September 17, when his wife Karen gave birth to their daughter, Lydia Elaine O’Neill. Proud parents welcomed Lydia, weighing 10lbs 1oz, at Northside Hospital in Atlanta, at 9:45 in the evening.

“I thought I was prepared for the moment for when she was born, but in truth, I wasn’t. There’s just no way for anyone to prepare you for that moment and for how it feels. It was just the most incredible thing I have ever experienced,” Nathan said while holding his baby girl for the first time.

Both Karen and baby Lydia are doing well and are expected to return to their Braselton home Wednesday.

August 3, 2006: Nathan O'Neill 2nd in current NRC Points Standings

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO - USA Cycling released it's current list of NRC Points and Nathan O'Neill remains in 2nd on the circuit with 1180 points and only 90 points away from NRC points leader Floyd Landis. Team Health Net Presented by Maxxis has a commanding 1,411 point lead in the Team category over 2nd place Toyota-United.

July 16, 2006: Cascade Cycling Classic Final, Nathan O'Neill 6th Overall.

BEND, OR - Nathan O'Neill finishes in 6th place overall in The Bend Memorial Cascade Cycling Classic. Repeated attacks by O'Neill in today's final stage were covered by Toyota-United where he rode as a marked man.

July 15, 2006: O’Neill wins Stage 4 Time Trial, moves up in GC.

BEND, OR - A win in today' Bend Research Inc. - Arnold Market Time Trial moves Nathan O'Neill to 3rd in the General Classification only 10 seconds of teammate Jeff Louder's lead.

Nathan, as Guest Commentator, offers his insights to Dave Towle at the USPRO races in Greenville
© JC Gillespie

Nathan O'Neill overall winner
2007 Mt. Hood Classic
© Lyne Lamoureux

O'Neill gets a call up at the start
2007 Mt. Hood Classic
© Lyne Lamoureux

Stage 6 - The Health Net Train leads out
2007 Mt. Hood Classic
© Lyne Lamoureux

Nathan O'Neill winner of the 2007 Tour of the Gila.
© Mitch Clinton Photo

Staying out of Trouble - Tour of the Gila Stage 3
© Mitch Clinton Photo

Protected - Tour of the Gila Stage 3
© Mitch Clinton Photo

Keeping the Competition in Check - Tour of the Gila Stage 2
© Mitch Clinton Photo

O'Neill on Record Pace - Tour of the Gila Stage 1
© Mitch Clinton Photo

Loyal Nathan Fans Laura O'Hara & Joan Poates - TDG Stage 5

"You Two Go Right at the Light, I'm Going Left" - TDG Stage 7
© Elizabeth DeLong Photo

Poised and Ready - TDG Stage 7
© Elizabeth DeLong Photo

Chase is on - TDG Stage 7
© Elizabeth DeLong Photo

Nathan Signing Autographs - TDG Stage 7
© Gary Sims

 Nate and Fast Freddy at the Start
Tour de Georgia Stage 6
© Bob DeLong Photo

 Proud Mom & Dad! - TDG Stage 6
© Bob DeLong Photo

 Home Away From Home
 TDG Stage 6
© Bob DeLong Photo

O'Neill Attacks Simoni
Brasstown Bald - TDG Stage 5
© Elizabeth DeLong Photo

The Fans Painted the Road for Nathan
Brasstown Bald - TDG Stage 5
© Bob DeLong Photo

Wind?...What Wind?
Press Conference - TDG Stage 4
© Bob DeLong Photo

Nathan O'Neill on the Podium - TDG Stage 4
© Bob DeLong Photo

Nathan O'Neill on the Climb TDG Stage 4
© Mia Sullivan

Tucked In - TDG Stage 4
© Bob DeLong Photo

Concentration Time - TDG Stage 4
© Bob DeLong Photo

Dave Towle takes a moment to interview Nathan O'Neill at Sign In - TDG Stage 3
© Bob DeLong Photo

July 14, 2006: O’Neill set for Saturday's Dual Stage.

BEND, OR - Nathan O'Neill sits comfortable just 24 seconds in 5th overall behind teammate Jeff Louder, who took the yellow jersey from Chris Wherry (Toyota-United) in Friday's stage. Nathan looks to move up in the GC after Saturday's time trial and evening crit.

July 13, 2006:  Louder, Moninger and O’Neill in position for run at top spot at Cascade.
Courtesy Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis

BEND, OR - "...That group contained Louder, Scott Moninger and Nathan O’Neill of Health Net Presented by Maxxis, all well-placed after Stage 1, in which they finished 3rd, 5th and 6th respectively. Moninger and O’Neill each moving up a place on GC after today"...more

July 12, 2006:  O'Neill 6th in Cascade Cycling Classic Opener

BEND, OR - Nathan O'Neill finished the first stage of the Bend Memorial Clinic Cascade Cycling Classic, the Prineville Road Race, in a respectable 6th position, just 00:26 of the time of race leader Chris Wherry (Toyota United).

June 18, 2006:  Health Net presented by Maxxis Sweeps Nature Valey Grand Prix
Courtesy Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis

STILLWATER, MN - It's unusual for one team to sweep the final podium of a hotly contested NRC stage race. It's just as unusual for the leader's jersey to rest on three different riders from the same team in three days. But with his fourth place finish in the final stage of the Nature Valley Grand Prix, Karl Menzies of the Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis took over the lead from teammate Greg Henderson, who in turn, had taken over the lead from teammate Nathan O'Neill on Saturday...more

June 14, 2006:  O'Neill, Health Net Smoke Field
Courtesy Cyclingnews.com

ST. PAUL, MN - Waiting for an hour after posting the fastest time, Navigator Insurance's Bernard Van Ulden just shook his head as Health Net/Maxxis' Nathan O'Neill blazed through the finishing chute to post the winning time. more

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June 4, 2006:  Moniger takes Stage 6, O'Neill takes Overall Win at Mt. Hood Cycling Classic!

HOOD RIVER, OR - Another cool day for the Stage 6 Three-Summit Road Race with Nathan O'Neill finishing 5th and retaining his lead and the overall win for the GC in the Mt. Hood Cycling Classic. Teammate Scott Moniger wins the stage.

June 3, 2006:  O'Neill takes Scenic Gorge Time Trial Win!

HOOD RIVER, OR - The high winds of Scenic Gorge couldn't stop Nathan O'Neill as he powered through for the win in today's Mt. Hood Cycling Classic Stage 4 TT keeping him at #1 in the GC.

June 2, 2006:  O'Neill, Bausch prove they can climb
Courtesy Cyclingnews.com

HOOD RIVER, OR - If there's a chink in Nathan O'Neill's armor thus far at the Mt. Hood Cycling Classic, it's not easy to spot...more

May 31, 2006:  O'Neill, Powers win first stage of Mt. Hood Cycling Classic
Courtesy Mount Hood Cycling Classic

HOOD RIVER, OR - Health Net's Nathan O'Neill and Rio Grande/Sports Garage's Alison Powers won the opening stage of the Mt. Hood Cycling Classic on Wednesday in Hood River, Ore. O'Neil covered the three-mile time trial stage in 6 minutes 7 seconds. Powers did it in 7:17. The course gained only 150 feet in elevation, but it was not flat. Riders were greeted with a steep hill immediately out of the start house followed by a descent of more than a mile and a steep climb at the finish.

May 18, 2006:  Health Net presented by Maxxis on top of latest NRC team standings...O'Neill and Fraser second and third
Courtesy Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis

Nathan O'Neill (793) and Gord Fraser (682) of Health Net Presented by Maxxis are sitting second and third respectively on the NRC individual standings behind Floyd Landis (Phonak), who has earned 1270 points on the strength of his overall titles in the Tours of California and Georgia. High placings in both California and Georgia, as well as the overall title at Redlands have given O'Neill his ranking, while a recent string of wins, including three stages and the overall title of the Joe Martin Stage Race, have put Fraser in the top 3. Scott Moninger, last year's overall NRC individual points champion, is 9th with 396 points.

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May 14, 2006:  Joe Martin Stage Race Update - Nathan O'Neill finishes 4th Overall.

Fayetteville, AR - Health Net Presented by Maxxis comes away from a great weekend of racing with Nathan O'Neill finishing 4th, Scott Moninger finishing 3rd and Gord Fraser finishing 1st in the overall GC.

May 13, 2006:  Joe Martin Stage Race Update - O'Neill second in Individual Time Trial. Fraser sweeps first two road races

Fayetteville, AR - Nathan O'Neill finishes 2nd in today's Individual Time Trial at the Joe Martin Stage Race just 2 seconds behind teammate Scott Moninger and moves into 4th in the GC. Health Net Presented by Maxxis is dominating the stage race after Gord Fraser's wins on both Friday and Saturday's Road Race and Moninger and O'Neill one, two for the TT. Sunday's criterium should be a battle as the team tries for their 4th win this weekend.

Alpharetta, GA - Nathan and the Health Net boys throttled it in the final laps of Stage 6 to put Gord Fraser at the number 2 spot on the podium today. O'Neill finishes the 2006 Ford Tour de Georgia at 7th place in the GC and the top US based, non-PRO Tour rider again!!

April 22, 2006:  Ford Tour de Georgia Stage 5 - Nathan O'Neill fans out in force.

Brasstown Bald, GA - Attack after attack split the field on the final climb up Brasstown Bald and Team Phonak, along with a strong showing from Team Discovery, were able to advance their riders up the GC. Nathan powered in at 16th and sits now at #7 in the GC, 3'45" out from race leader Floyd Landis.

Dahlonega, GA - Mother natures strikes again in a virtual repeat of last year's stage where rain and fog socked in the riders at the summit of Fort Mountain. Nathan O'Neill spent much of the day on the wheel of Floyd Landis and the entire Phonak squad had their eye on Nathan at the summit of Fort Mountain. Tomorrows stage could be the deciding factor. With Phonak controlling things for race leader Floyd Landis, some of the pressure will be off team Health Net Presented by Maxxis allowing them to set up Nathan for the hors categorie climb up Brasstown Bald.

And so, the song says, ride along in the Team Car for the Stage 3 Time Trial and video of Nathan's blistering descent of Lookout Mountain...Coming Soon!

April 20, 2006:  Ford Tour de Georgia Stage 3 - Lookout" is fitting...Nathan O'Neill sitting tight in 4th!!

Chattanooga, TN - Donning the Australian National colors, Nathan O'Neill set a blistering pace in today's time trial over Lookout Mountain and held on finish 4th in Stage 3 of the 2006 Ford Tour de Georgia. Commenting on the descent, Nathan stated " I was either going to make up time, or crash..." and he crossed the finish with the 4th best time of the day and the top US based, non-PRO Tour rider sitting at 0.55 seconds behind race leader Floyd Landis (Phonak).

April 19, 2006:  Ford Tour de Georgia Stage 2 -  O'Neill readies for tomorrows Time Trial!

Rome, GA - Yet another lead out for Menzies by the Health Net boys puts Karl in 4th overall. Nathan O'Neill cruises in at 25th in the GC after today's stage just 22 seconds off race leader Yaroslav Popovych (DISCOVERY) and placing him in prime position to take the lead after tomorrow's Time Trial. The length and profile suits Nathan's style and this may be the decisive stage in the 2006 TDG.

Macon, GA - Nathan O'Neill and Karl Menzies led out the final closing moments of today's inaugural stage of the Ford Tour de Georgia setting up Health Net for the sprint but a crash in the final lap broke up the field. Nathan finished respectably at #30 setting him up for GC contention only 10 seconds off today's stage winner Lars Michaelson (CSC).

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April 08, 2006:  Maxxis Georgia Cup - Nathan O'Neill brings his own Tornado to GA!

Gainesville, GA - Despite the looming weather, Nathan O'Neill wins todays' Maxxis Georgia Cup Thurmond Tanner Time Trial.

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March 26, 2006:  Redlands Bicycle Classic - Stage#3 Final- Teamwork Pays off for O'Neill as he holds on for the Overall Win at Redlands!

REDLANDS, CA - Protecting their race leader, Nathan O'Neill, the Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis worked together to keep Nathan in the Yellow Jersey for the 2006 Redlands Bicycle Classic win. The team hunted down Chris Baldwin (Navigators), Nathan's threat for the GC crown, in the final 2 laps and reeled in the 30 second gap to get O'Neill in position for the finish and retain his overall lead in this 3 day event.

March 25, 2006:  Redlands Bicycle Classic - Stage#2 Update- GC Looking Good - Nathan O'Neill Number One.

REDLANDS, CA - Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis controlled today's stage, the Beaver Medical Group Criterium and protected their Race Leader, Nathan O'Neill who will retain the Yellow Jersey. Teammate Karl Menzies wins the stage with a BIG sprint solidifying Health Net's standing in the 3 day event.

REDLANDS, CA - Nathan O'Neill dominates the field to yet another 1st place finish this year in today's 1st Centennial Bank Time Trial at the Redlands Bicycle Classic. Nathan finished 11.9 seconds ahead of Toyota United Pro's Chris Baldwin. 3rd in the stage was Scott Moninger,  Nathan's Health Net teammate.

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Nathan O'Neill brings home the Gold Medal at today's Time Trial in Melbourne, AU. Fellow Aussie Ben Day finished 2nd 24.38 seconds behind Nathan's winning time of 48.37.29!

March 21, 2006:  Trust Nathan to ride for his life...
Courtesy Jim Wilson, Melbourne Herald Sun

AUSTRALIAN cyclist Nathan O'Neill is set to complete a remarkable comeback tomorrow. O'Neill will ride for gold in the men's time-trial and is considered a genuine contender for the Commonwealth title. But the fact he's back on a bike is a miracle in itself after he nearly lost his life in a race accident three years ago when he broke his neck...more

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February 26, 2006:  Amgen Tour of California Stage 7 - FINAL

Redondo Beach, CA - In his first stage race on US soil in 2006 riding for the Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis, Nathan O'Neill finishes 5th overall in the inaugural Amgen Tour of California!!!

February 25, 2006:  Amgen Tour of California Stage 6 -

Nathan O’Neill finished safely in the bunch to retain his 5th place position in the general classification.

February 24, 2006:  Amgen Tour of California Stage 5 - O'Neill holds steady when fireworks fly on San Marcos
Courtesy Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis

San Jose, CA – Everybody expected the final climb of today's Stage 5 of the Amgen Tour of California to be decisive. It also came as little surprise that it was the Gerolsteiner team of Levi Leipheimer, sitting 6th overall just two seconds behind Nathan O'Neill of the Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis, that lit the fuse on the fireworks...more

February 23, 2006:  Amgen Tour of California Stage 4 -

Nathan O'Neill finishes strong today in the peleton and retains his 5th place in the General Classification at 1'.08" behind Floyd Landis.

February 22, 2006:  Amgen Tour of California Stage 3 - O’Neill vaults to 5th overall in California.
Courtesy Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis

San Jose, CA – Nathan O’Neill of the Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis had been targeting this stage for weeks. “I knew it would be decisive for the overall classification,” he said.

The seven-time and current Australian national time trial champion also knew the 17-mile Stage 3 individual time trial would be an opportunity to make a run at the top of the general classification. He made the most of that opportunity, placing 5th in today’s time trial with a time of 36:55.74, to move up from 18th to 5th overall.

Stage winner Floyd Landis (Phonak) flew through the course to a time of 35:58.91 – the only rider to break the 36-minute barrier – to assume the overall race lead from George Hincapie. David Zabriskie (CSC), winner of an individual time trial at the Giro d’Italia, finished second at 36:24.53. He was followed by his teammate, 2004 Olympic time trial bronze medalist Bobby Julich at 36:33.59. Hincapie came in just 2.7 seconds ahead of O’Neill for 4th place...more

Tim & Jeff on the Podium - Tour de Georgia Stage 3
© Bob DeLong Photo

One to Go! - Stage 2, 2007 Tour de Georgia
© Bob DeLong Photo

Nathan's Ride for 2007
© Bob DeLong Photo

Determined & Ready to Roll - 2007 Tour de Georgia
© Bob DeLong Photo

Nathan Chats it up with Dave Towle at the 2007 Tour de Georgia - Stage 1
© Bob DeLong Photo

Versus TV takes a turn with Nathan - 2007 TDG Stage 1
© Bob DeLong Photo

The starting gun is fired - 2007 TDG Stage 1
© Bob DeLong Photo

A testament to seatbelts - 2007

Out of the saddle for the win!
© Mark Gunter Photo

Nathan O'Neill wins his 8th National Championship
© Mark Gunter Photo

Nathan gives Dave Towle a hand as a guest commentator at the USPRO TT
© Pelotonsports.net

To quote Arnold.."I'll be back"
© Bob DeLong Photo

This way Gord!...
© Bob DeLong Photo

O'Neill at Stage 6 start
© Bob DeLong Photo

Nathan's autograph was in demand
© Bob DeLong Photo

O'Neill thrashes Ekimove
© Bob DeLong Photo

Fans took to the streets
© Bob DeLong Photo

The Phonak boys keep Nathan in check atop Fort Mountain
© Bob DeLong Photo

 Nate and Karen's dog Reilly, the newest Team O'Neill member!
© Bob DeLong Photo

Lookout Mountain Looms Ahead
© Bob DeLong Photo

Warm-up and dial in
© Bob DeLong Photo

Drilling it near the split
© Bob DeLong Photo

On the rivet for the catch
© Bob DeLong Photo

The fans love Nathan
© Bob DeLong Photo

O'Neill and Menzies Drive the Peleton
© Bob DeLong Photo

Nathan gets called to the start of the 2006 TDG
© Bob DeLong Photo

Nathan's Official Roster Number
© Bob DeLong Photo

Redlands 2006
© Steve Cohen

© Casey Gibson

©Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

©2006 Karman PhotoGraphics

© John Veage

© John Veage
 

© John Veage

January 27, 2006: O'Neill's time for squad
Courtesy Michael Stevens, Herald Sun

SEVEN-TIME national cycling road time-trial champion Nathan O'Neill is available for the Commonwealth Games. And Mark French will make another attempt to ride a flying 200m qualifying time at Sydney's Bankstown Sports Carnival tomorrow night. O'Neill, 31, has a release from his American professional trade team Health.Net, and will compete in only the time-trial, not the road race. National coach Shayne Bannan, who made a concerted effortto secure O'Neill after his brilliant national title win at Mt Torrens in Adelaide on January 11, confirmed yesterday his availability...more

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January 12, 2006: No luck needed by O'Neill in winning Australian TT title number 7
.Courtesy Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis

Nathan O'Neill stormed the tough Mt. Torrens (AUS) time trial course to win his seventh career Australian National Time Trial title Thursday. He completed the 40Km run in 53:14.74 (45.07 km/h), finishing almost three minutes ahead of second place finisher Luke Roberts (CSC), despite dropping his chain before the final climb...more

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January 11, 2006: O'Neill in 7th Heaven
Courtesy the Courier-Mail

Queensland cyclist Nathan O'Neill won his seventh Australian time trial championship with a dominating performance today. O'Neill clocked 53min 14sec over the 40km course to beat South Australian Luke Roberts by 2min 59sec on day one of the national road championships at Mt Torrens, near Adelaide. Ben Day of Queensland was third in 56min 26sec.

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January 11, 2006: Nathan O'Neill wins 7th Australian National Time Trial Championship!!!!

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Bend, Oregon: July 8, 2005: Cascade Cycling Classic Stage 3 TT: Nathan O'Neill takes the win at the Tumalo Time Trial!!! finishing in 0:13:26.00  just 00:23 ahead of teammate Chris Baldwin. Jeff Louder finishes 3rd and the Navigators sweep the podium with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd!

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Bend, Oregon: July 6, 2005: Cascade Cycling Classic Stage 1: Nathan O'Neill grabs 5th place as the Navigators squad finish Stage 1 with Phil Zajicek 2nd and Cesar Grajales 3rd.

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June 27, 2005: Nathan O'Neill gets Pez'd! - Jered Gruber chats with Nathan about all things racing in part 1 of his interview at pezcyclingnews.

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Tour de Beauce Update

QUEBEC, CANADA: June 18, 2005: Stage 6 FINAL - Nathan O'Neill Takes the Overall Win for Tour de Beauce! The Navigators squad was able to keep Nathan in the Maillot Jaune today and he takes the podium in 1st Place Overall in the GC. Teammate Jeff Louder will be sharing the podium with a 3rd Place Overall, David O'Loughlin winning the Points Classification  and the Navigators squad takes the Overall Team Classification!

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QUEBEC, CANADA: June 18, 2005: Stage 5 - It's Yellow for O'Neill! Nathan O'Neill will be wearing the Maillot Jaune at the start of Stage 6 tomorrow after a great showing today from the Navigators squad. Teammate David O'Loughlin will be alongside wearing the Maillot Blanc.

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Flash: O'Neill takes Beauce Time Trial ...Courtesy Navigators Insurance Cycling Team

Earlier today, Navigators Insurance's Australian Time Trial Champion, Nathan O'Neill took the win in stage-4a of the G.P. Cycliste de Beauce. O'Neill smoked the 27km course with a time of 35:24, which was :52 seconds ahead of former Canadian Champion Svein Tuft (Symetrics).  In addition to O'Neill's strong ride, Navigators' Jeff Louder finished the stage in 3rd place, with teammate David O'Loughlin in 4th.  O'Neill's stage-win, the team's second of the race, moves him into 2nd place in the Overall GC, :05 behind Tuft.  This tough 2-stage day continues this evening with a Criterium in downtown St. Georges.

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QUEBEC, CANADA: June 16, 2005: Stage 3 - Teammate David O'Loughlin takes the stage win and Nathan O'Neill finishes in 31th place moving him up to 13th in the General Classification, still at 1:17. The Navigators squad is now placed at #1 in the Team Classification after 3 stages.

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QUEBEC, CANADA: June 15, 2005: Stage 2 - Nathan O'Neill finishes in 11th place in Stage 2 moving him up to 15th in the General Classification at 1:17. The Navigators squad is now placed at #2 in the Team Classification after 2 stages.

Dodge Tour de Georgia Update 

ALPHARETTA, GA: April 24, 2005: Stage 6 - FINAL - Nathan O'Neill Takes 8th in the final Overall General Classification! Thousands turned out today for the final stage of the Dodge Tour de Georgia and the competition rose to the occasion.  At 500 [meters to go] it was Navigator's Davidenko, Floyd Landis, Gord Fraser and Greg Henderson. Fraser took the win. The Navigator's official release stated that it was a fine week for the Navigators Insurance squad, in their first event on American soil in 2005.	Nathan signs in at Blairsville © Bob DeLong Photo
The loss of Mark Walters from injuries sustained in a high speed crash during the hail storm in stage 4 was a big loss for the squad, but having riders place 3rd, 5th and 11th in the stage-3 Individual Time Trial, was a sign of the team's GC strength.
Nathan with Andrea Tafi	Nathan O'Neill carried the torch for the Navigators team and finished in 8th place overall, just 3:14 behind race winner Danielson.  This accomplishment is made even more significant as the competitive field was probably the strongest stage-race lineup in North America, ever.  In addition, the Navigators Insurance team was the only non UCI Pro Tour squad to place in the top-10 in the General Classification.

BRASSTOWN BALD, TOWNS COUNTY, GA: April 23, 2005: Stage 5 -   

Nathan O'Neill on Brasstown Bald © Bob DeLong Photo

Although the Navigators squad hasn't managed a TDG stage victory this year, a stellar ride by Nathan O'Neill saw him in the final selection of 15 following the category-1 climb of Hogpen Gap.  On the main climb, the fireworks began and the gap to Vande Velde evaporated.  With world-class climbers racing up a world-class climb, the fans had a great opportunity to see exciting racing by top competitors and teams.

Grinding up through the many curves, the group splintered and the tactics became a mere formality as the fastest climbers charged up the hill, leaving each rider to survive the best he could.  The first to the summit was Tom Danielson, followed by Leipheimer, then Armstrong. O'Neill crossed the line in 14th, with one more day of racing in The Peach State.

Nathan fans are everywhere! © Bob DeLong Photo

This moves Nathan to #8 in the GC at 3:14 and the Navigators Team to #7.

DAHLONEGA, GA: April 22, 2005: Stage 4 - REVISED -There seems to be some confusion as to the correct reporting of Nathan O'Neill's finish today. The official Navigator's press release places Nathan at #5 in the GC after today's stage. The Navigators Team is placed 5th overall in the GC at the end of the day. 

Bob Roll with Karen O'Neill(R) and Soorya

Warming up for the time trial

ROME, GA: April 21, 2005: Stage 3 Time Trial - Nathan O'Neill Takes 5th in Today's Time Trial! The Navigators Insurance squad began the day with several strong rides, as Jeff Louder posted the fastest time of the day, before having teammate David O'Loughlin take over the top spot.  Navigators' current Australian National Time Trial Champion; Nathan O'Neill, also posted a fast time putting him 24-seconds behind the new best time of David Zabriskie (CSC), the current U.S. National Time Trial Champion.   

With 30 riders still out on the wet roads, the Navigators Insurance team has O'Neill and O'Loughlin on the podium with Zabriskie in the lead. The fast times of several race favorites continue to come in, displacing many of the current leaders.	Nathan in the Start House © Bob DeLong Photo
Roll-up to the start	A new time is posted that pushes O'Neill and O'Loughlin down a spot, but it's none other than Navigators' former U.S. National Time Trial Champion; Chris Baldwin!  Despite the rain, the crowds are huge as the final racers are also strong time trialists, including the popular Lance Armstrong.
When the last of the riders finally crossed the line, it was Floyd Landis taking the top spot as Zabriskie dropped into 2nd, while Baldwin retained 3rd place. Navigators' Nathan O'Neill finished in 5th just behind Bobby Julich (CSC).  An All-American podium was certainly a thrill for the City of Rome.  The next 2 stages will test the climbing abilities of the riders as the race heads into the hills of northern Georgia. Nathan O'Neill is now placed at #5 in the General Classification at 11.15'.02".	Dave Towle chats with Nathan at sign-in

ROME , GA: April 20, 2005: Stage 2 - Nathan O'Neill moves up to  #30 in the General Classification at 10.34'.21".

MACON , GA: April 19, 2005: Stage 1 - Nathan O'Neill is currently placed at #31 in the General Classification at 5.47'.52".

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ: March 27, 2005: Columbian climbing specialist, and winner of last year's Brasstown Bald stage, Cesar Grajales, will spearhead the team's mountain assault for the 2005 tour. Grajales will be joined by current and 6 time Australian National Time Trial Champion Nathan O'Neill whose expertise against the clock should make him an ideal General Classification threat.  O'Neill's GC and chrono riding will be augmented by 2003 US National Time Trial Champion Chris Baldwin and 2004 Irish National Road and former National Time Trial Champ, David O'Loughlin, who both represent a threat in the Individual Time Trial as well as the mountains and overall classifications...more

Nathan at the start in Fayetteville, GA

G.P. Cycliste de Beauce - Stage 6 Finale (UCI 2.1): Navigators Takes the Race...continued from front page
Courtesy Navigators Insurance Cycling Team

Despite the teams dominating performance this week, there was a great respect of the danger their challengers posed, and a cautious atmosphere in the team camp. Riding to script, the team controlled the first of 12 laps of the 11 km circuit, keeping particular vigilance on the opening 2km climb. Letting a 5-rider break roll away on the 2nd lap, the blue train set up formation, and rode a comfortable tempo.  An attack by the red jersey (best young rider), Brandon Crichton, launched the quintet that included yesterday's stage winner Charles Dionne.  The group was allowed to ride out to 1'40" at its best, and the field was held at a comfortable pace as Davidenko and Grichkine rolled the flats and Grajales paced the climb.

The Navigators Insurance Cycling Team announce roster for the 3rd edition of the Dodge Tour of Georgia, April 19-24, 2005...continued from front page
Courtesy Navigators Insurance Cycling Team

...The Russian Rocket, Vassili Davidenko, a former Russian National Road Champion will represent the team's speed weapon for the finishing sprints, while Phil Zajicek and Jeff Louder will bring their strong all around abilities to the team's attack. Former Canadian National Champion Mark Walters will round out the 8-man squad. Walters is coming of a strong 5th place finish in the Belgian semi classic, Nokere-Koerse, and is showing signs of the form that enabled him to win the US Pro Championships in Philadelphia in 2002.

The Tour de Georgia will be the Navigators Insurance squad's first team event in the USA in 2005, after spending most of the early season in Western Europe. "This is the first significant event on the domestic race calendar in the U.S.", said team Director Sportif, Ed Beamon, "and it is a very important event for us. I think we are sending a very strong and capable team, and we will be looking for results. The team has been racing since January, and should have very good condition, and we are looking forward to representing Navigators Insurance, Colnago bicycles, and all of our sponsors on home soil." 

5th Settimana Ciclistica Internazionale Coppi-Bartali 

Misano Adriatico, Italy: March 22, 2005 (Stage 1b TTT): With two stages complete, Nathan O'neill is placed at #29 in the General Classification and the Navigators team had a strong showing at #3 in the Team Time Trial. Director Ed Beamon stated "We had been talking about this stage since training camp. With O’Neill, Baldwin and O’Loughlin all being good time trialists – especially over a short distance – and the other guys also being strong, we were aiming for top five. It was an ambitious goal but we went into it one hundred percent. To do better than that is great."

2005 Telekom Malaysia Tour de Langkawi Update:

Langkawi, Malaysia: February 6, 2005 - FINAL:  After 10 stages completed, Nathan O'Neill finishes at #12 in the General Classification with only a 5'25" deficit from Tour leader Ryan Cox (Barloworld). To quote Phil Liggett, "Nathan whipped up the pace" in stage 10 to deliver teamate Oleg Grishkine into 2nd place in the Overall Points Competition. The Navigators team finishes strong at #4 in the Team GC and had 3 riders in the top 25 GC including O'Neill's teammates Cesar Grajales at #4, and Mark Walter at #22.

O'Neill Takes The Stage - Tour of Langkawi - Stage 4 (2.HC) 

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ: January 31, 2005 (Stage 4…Bachok TT…Jan. 31st…20.3km)

The time to shake things up has arrived in Malaysia at the 10th edition of the Tour de Langkawi. A 20.3km TT in the beach city of Bachok would be the first real test to separate the general classification riders, and establish a legitimate pecking order for the days to come. The rectangular course wound through the local agricultural region, passing the area's many rice and vegetable plantations, picturesquely punctuated with coconut groves. 
 

The field laborers were treated to an unfamiliar entertainment carnival as the colorful, lycra-clad cyclists sped by at 1-minute intervals. The course turned back along the coast for the last 8km, and the riders were faced with a cross headwind for the most difficult part of the ride. Navigators Insurance's Australian National TT Champion, Nathan O'Neill was the 38th rider to start, and his ½ way split showed that he was the fastest on the course. After conserving some energy over the opening kilometers, O'Neill opened it up and came in with the day's fastest time of 24'42". Barloworld's Ryan Cox was a late starter, and bested O'Neill's intermediate split by almost 2" , but he could not match the Aussie's pace over the final kms, and O'Neill took the stage, 5" in front of the South African Champ.  Selle Italia's Jose Rujano shocked everyone posting a 24'58", and putting him in third place for the day. Rujano is one of the big favorites for the overall, and his strong TT result will keep him in contention, and at least partially neutralize Cox's stellar ride.

Nathan O'Neill takes the 4th stage win at the 2005 Tour de Langkawi © Mark Gunter Photo

Navigators Insurance's GC hopes lie in climbing ace Cesar Grajales, and his respectable time of 26'06" puts him in 22nd place at the moment, and keeps him within striking distance.

Overnight race leader Koji Fukushima used the power of the yellow jersey to carry him to a 26'22", and 39th place for the stage. Although he gave back nearly 1'40" to O'Neill, he still holds a 1'20" advantage, with Cox in third another 2" back. Discovery Channel put 3 riders in the top ten with Michael Barry being the best paced in 5th.

Stage 4:

 1. Nathan O'Neill (Navigators Insurance)
 2. Ryan Cox (Barloworld)
 3. Jose Rujano (Selle Italia)

GC (Unofficial): 

 1. Koji Fukushima (Bridgestone-Anchor)
 2. Nathan O'Neill (Navigators Insurance) @ 1:20
 3. Ryan Cox (Barloworld)  @ 1:22 

Nathan O'Neill's Navigators Insurance Colnago Dream
By Anthony Tan
Courtesy Cyclingnews.com

The 2005 Australian time trial champion Nathan O'Neill had a dream start to the year, taking his second consecutive national title - his sixth in total - aboard his Colnago Dream TT machine earlier this month...more

2005 Jacob's Creek Tour Down Under Final

Adelaide, Australia: January 24, 2005 - After 6 stages and the Tour completed, Nathan O'Neill finishes at #80 in the General Classification. Teammate David O'Loughlin (Irl) finishes #2 in the overall Mountains Classification.

2005 Australian National TT Championships
Courtesy Navigators Insurance Cycling Team

Hackettstown, NJ: January 12, 2005 - Defending a title is one of the most difficult feats in sport, and the higher the stakes, the more difficult the challenge. In a country as lush with cycling talent as Australia, no rider has successfully defended a National TT Championship in the Elite men's field, and to make the task that much more interesting, the 2005 championship was held on a new course, in a new venue.
 

The city of Adelaide in South Australia, is this year's host for the Australian National Road Championships, and the 40km TT was held on a new course, in part to coincide with the festivities leading up to Australia's premier stage race, The Jacob's Creek Tour Down Under, which begins here next week.  The Navigators Insurance TT ace, Nathan O'Neill was the man with the bull's eye on his back as the day began. O'Neill is a five time elite National TT champ, and everyone's favorite pick to be the man to beat. Strong competition from Rabobank's Rory Sutherland, and Selle Italia's Russell Van Hout, who has been showing particular good form of late, set the stage for the battle against the clock.

The legendary Phil Liggett gets a quote from Nathan O'Neill, following his win in the Australian National TT Championship.  Photo: Karen O'Neill

In the end, it was Navigators Insurance's O'Neill blistering the course with the fastest time of 47.41. Just in front of him at the finish were his 2 and 3-minute men, Southerland and Van Hout finishing at 1.37, and 2.47 respectively.

Following the race, Nathan said; "This is a very special win for me because all the people who support and encourage me are here--my parents, my wife, my long-time coach, Peter Day, my team director, Ed Beamon, and our team mechanic, Shane Fedon. They made this possible for me, and I appreciate them being here."

With his blazing ride, O'Neill won his 6th Elite TT championship, and became the first Aussie to win back-to-back TT crowns. His Victory is the third in two weeks for the Navigators squad, and the second of the New Year.

1) Nathan O'Neill (QLD-Toowoomba CC/Navigators Insurance) 47.41
2) Rory Sutherland (ACT-Canberra CC/Rabobank)@1.37
3) Russell Van Hout (SA-Adelaide CC/Selle Italia)@ 2.47

O'Neill Wins Australia National Time Trial Championship
Courtesy Navigators Insurance Cycling Team

Hackettstown, NJ: January 12, 2005 - Nathan O'Neill (AUS), one of the Navigators Insurance team's new signings for 2005, became the Australian Professional National Time Trial Champion today (January 12th in Australia). This Championship marks his 9th National Championship Jersey in Road and Time Trial events, his 7th in the Time Trial. This victory is also the second for the Navigators Insurance squad in the first 2 weeks of the New Year.

Nathan, the defending 2004 champ, won on a 40-Km (25-mile) traditional out-and-back course in Echunga, near Adelaide.  Clocking a 47:41 on the wind-swept course, he bested Rory Sutherland and Russell Van Hout to take his third title in four years.
 

ECHUNGA, AUSTRALIA: January 12, 2005 — Nathan takes the Time Trial win at the Australian Open Road Championships in 47.41 making him a SIX-TIME Australian National Time Trial Champion! 

O'Neill and Wood gearing up to defend road time trial crowns
Courtesy Cyclingnews.com

ECHUNGA, AUSTRALIA: January 11, 2005 — Queensland's Nathan O'Neill says he's aiming for his sixth men's time trial crown when he lines up at the Australian Open Road Championships in the South Australian town of Echunga on Wednesday...more

O'Neill Signs With Navigators Insurance For 2005
Courtesy Navigators Insurance Cycling Team
October 25,2004

Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood: The best domestic rider not at Redlands
By Neal Rogers
VeloNews associate editor
March 31, 2004

Interview with Colavita/Bolla Cyclist Nathan O'Neill
By Janna Trevisanut
Daily Peloton
January 5, 2004