Michael is an excellent team rider with a quiet disposition and friendly manner. His strengths lie in the hills and in the time trial. Now back to full health after illness in 2007, Michael went from strength to strength in 2008, eventually taking an exciting win after a solo breakaway in the Tour of Missouri.

He also represented Canada in the Olympics. Whilst fulfilling his career in cycling he writes articles for the New York Times and various cycling magazines and he has published two books.

Check out Michael Barry's personal website: http://www.michaelbarry.ca/

I love freedom of being on a clean burning, quiet, efficient machine while discovering the environment. Going fast and experiencing a rare moment when everything seems to flow smoothly and in unison when my body and the bike become one.

The team stands for change in a sport that has become beleaguered with problems and for this I am proud to be on the team.

 

• What are you doing when you’re not cycling?

When I am not riding, I enjoy spending time with my two boys, writing, and Reading.

• What do you like about riding for Team Columbia-HTC?

My teammates, We have a great group of guys and the ambiance at the races is always good. 

•  What is your greatest childhood memory on 2 wheels?

My greatest childhood memory on two wheels would be riding the Mont Ventoux with my father on a tandem when I was only eight years old.

• How did you get into cycling?

 My father grew up racing in England, opened a bike shop in Canada and is very passionate about cycling. His passion was passed on to me, I grew up in a cycling environment and since I was a little boy I have always wanted to race.

• What has been your biggest challenge as a pro cyclist?

Overcoming injuries. 

• Share a memorable pro career moment:

Winning the team classification at the Tour of MIssouri in 2008. We had a great team, a great time, and getting on the podium together was the peak moment of a fantastic week spent as a team.

•  What is the last song you listened to before you turned off your Ipod/Zune?
  

Leonard Cohen, Everybody Knows.

• What is the best book you have ever read?

There are too many....In the Skin of a Lion by Michael Ondaatje is memorable one though.

• What is your favorite comfort food?

Chocolate covered digestive cookies.

• What can someone do that really bothers you?

Answering their cell phone in the middle of a conversation, and I cannot stand bad table manners.