Torckler returns to peloton after hit-and-run car crash

Although it's a reputation he'd probably rather not wear, Michael Torckler is proving himself to be the king of comebacks. The 24-year-old from New Zealand has overcome two major career setbacks – the latest a potentially fatal encounter with a wayward California automobile in June – to make his debut with Bissell Pro Cycling last week at the Tour of the Southland in his home country.

Growing up in Missoula, Montana, Pat competed in his first bike race in 1985 at Flathead Lake. He studied English and journalism at the University of Oregon and has covered North American cycling extensively since 2009, as well as racing and teams in Europe and South America. Pat currently lives in the US outside of Portland, Oregon, with his imaginary dog Rusty.