Accomplishments 1997
- After a shoot-out of testing and interviews, Michael was one of the four drivers selected from North America’s 16 best kart racers and awarded a fully-paid season in the Skip Barber Racing Challenge series for 1998.
- Participated in a Skip Barber Racing School before the shoot-out.
- Participated in the Bridgestone Racing School, Toronto.
- Finished 2nd for Bordin Racing in Formula V at Mosport Race Track, Toronto.
- Selected by AIM Sports for a Formula 1600 test.
- First in Formula A at the Elf Constructors Championship Series which took place in Nevada, Iowa, Illinois, North Carolina, Arizona, and Oregon.
- First in Reed & Rotary Light at the US Grand Nationals, Iowa. Michael won this class for three consecutive years.
- In the IKF Gold-Cup Championship, Michael was first in Formula A, second in Reed & Rotary Light, and second in 125cc Shifter.