You can't get very serious about racing for $1000 unless you buy a gently used bike. Serious racing these days require an investment of $3000 (and goes UP). That doesn't include pedals, bottles and cages, helmet, shoes, and clothing. Unfortunately in racing you can tie up at least $500 in accessories.
I have never heard of something universal, so unless you add details of what you mean, no help with that. A long distance bicycle has different geometry than a racing bike.
You can buy a road touring bike (entry level) for $1000, and still need some money for accessories. Most new bikes at that level will not have road pedals on the bike.
Look at your local bike shops now and see if there are any left over 2008's around. A 56 frame is very common and sells out quickly, but you might get lucky.
Buyer beware of used. There are some good used deals out there, but if you don't have a trained eye, or know exactly what you are looking for, find some help. Always buy used in a radius that you can travel to to view the bike in person before buying. Try e-bay, of course or craigslist.org (with caution on craigslist). A used bike should be priced at 1/2 price of new if in good condition, and 2/3 of new if in perfect/as new condition. If you are going it alone on a used purchase, still go get some education at the local bike shop of what type of equipment (grouppo) on the bike brings what kind of money. All the details are too numerous to mention here in brief.
You may also want to visit the various manufacturers web sites. Google is your friend.
