Ben Brooks

Nicknamed “Choc” for his deep, dark tan, Brooks got his start in cycling at an early age, racing in Australia for his father until the age of 16. He excelled on the road and the track, winning a junior world title in the team pursuit in 1997.

Then, it was off to Europe to begin his pro career. Unfortunately, he was part of the ill-fated Linda McCartney Racing Team that folded in 2000 without paying its riders and staff. Following a season off the bike (2001) and another with a smaller professional team (Team Down Under), Brooks made his way to the United States to race for U.S.-registered teams the next five seasons.

As a gifted all-arounder, he excelled in challenging, one-day races. Rarely hesitating to attack on climbs or chase down the top riders in the U.S. peloton, he racked up impressive results at the Tour de Georgia and in National Race Calendar road events. He also remained sharp on the track, winning the 2003 Australian national Madison title by teaming with Rodney McGee.

Brooks is known for his versatility – be it performing a leadout in a criterium or eyeing the opportunity to get in a breakaway during a stage race or one-day event. The harder the race, the better it suits him.

When he is not competing, Brooks spends time waterskiing and playing golf and backyard cricket. He and his long-time girlfriend, Rachael, were married in the off-season.

Career Pro Team History

1999: Linda McCartney Racing Team (Great-Britain)
2000: Linda McCartney Racing Team (Great-Britain)
2001: Did not compete professionally
2002: Team Down Under (BEL)
2003: Jelly Belly (USA)
2004: Jelly Belly-Aramark (USA)
2005: Jelly Belly-Pool Gel (USA)
2006: Navigators Insurance Cycling Team (USA)
2007: Navigators Insurance Cycling Team (USA)

Career Highlights

1st, Team Pursuit, 1997 World Junior Championships
1st, Madison, 2003 Australian National Championships
1st, Stage 9, 2000 Commonwealth Bank Classic
2nd, Stage 1, 2005 Tour de Georgia
3rd, Stage 3, 2004 Tour de Georgia
3rd Overall, 2004 Herald Sun Tour

2007 Results

1st, Stage 2, San Dimas Stage Race
1st, Stage 3, International Tour de ‘Toona
2nd, Stage 3, Redlands Bicycle Classic