First Endurance rider George Hincapie (Columbia-HTC) won the 2009 USPRO road race Championships in Greenville.   Hincapie won out of a small break at the end of the 177km race around his home town and will wear the Stars and Stripes for the third time in his professional career.

“I had the whole city wanting me to win and I’m glad it worked out. To wear the stars and stripes is always special.”  Sunday’s victory marks the American’s third time to win the US Pro Championship race, first in 1998 and again in 2006. ”I haven’t raced since the Tour because of my broken collarbone. But maybe it was a good thing to be able so stay at home, adjust to the heat, and stay really focused and work hard here in Greenville,” added Hincapie.  ” Craig [Lewis] was so impressive the way he set a really good pace and worked so hard, after being sick last week.  It was very emotional for me since it’s my hometown,” said Hincapie.   “I did feel a lot of pressure. But to win with all that pressure is a great feeling.”

“We are especially pleased for George and his family, to win the US Championship and be able to share the victory with nearly 40 of his family members present and cheering him on,” commented Team Columbia-HTC owner Bob Stapleton.