New Zealand cyclist Michael Torckler is in intensive care in a California hospital after being the victim of a hit-and-run incident.
The 25-year-old New Plymouth rider, who is part of the New Zealand-based Pure Black Racing team, was hit by a car while training on his own in Santa Rosa.
Team business director Greg Cross says Torckler was taken to hospital in a critical state but his condition has improved to serious but stable.
Cross says he doesn't yet have further details about the incident, which local police are investigating.
Torckler's family are making arrangement to fly to the United States as soon as possible.
Torckler, who had just completed the Tour de Beauce in Canada, scored the biggest victory of his career two months ago when he won the Tour of Borneo in Malaysia.
The victory came after he had fought back from a serious knee injury that left him sidelined for most of last year.
"Michael is an amazing young man," Cross said today.
"He's very determined and resilient, and he's been a hugely valued and respected member of the team. He's a fantastic cyclist and a fantastic young New Zealander."
NZN