2003 Team Penta Race Reports

35+ Team, by Anthony Luna

Anthony Luna represented the 35+ category.

Saturday 5/24 Road Race

OK, the race went very well the first day and the pack pretty much stayed together, myself and another rider attempted to make some break's but nothing stuck. So we had the last one mile plus climb to the finish which I was leading till 300 meters to go when my chain drooped (crap), but still finished sixth.

Day two had some rollers then a long decent just to turn around and climb out, well I attached and TT'd with 1 Kilo to go and got 2nd behind a solo break.

Day three I was thinking I would let the peloton go as this is a rest/recovery ride on our training schedule, at least it was for me and my schedule, but I didn't and did very well that day as well, I finished fourth, so I ended up 3rd overall.

So I would say that all the guy's that went to Flagstaff represented well.

Cat 4 Team, by Chris Hansel and Matt Bishop

Chris Hansel, Matt Bishop, and Ryan Pretner represented the Cat 4 category.

Saturday 5/24 Road Race, by Chris Hansel

The race was an out and back with a Hot Spot sprint and contained many rolling hills. Some of which were more than simple rollers. The race was pretty uneventful going out. I was not feeling the best on the power climbs and was beginning to wonder if it would be a good day. Shortly after the start I took a short flyer off the front just to test the field and determine if there were any players for a break. Even though we were only 10 miles in or so there was a willing party. I told him we should try again later in the race. After the turn around and a nice break attempt by Ryan Pretner this same guy attacked up 1/2 mile grade and I went with him. By the time we crested the grade there was a nice break but there was only two of and holding off the pack with just two guys was going to be hard. After a couple miles three others joined us, one from Las Vegas and a friend of mine, Jeremy Bauck. Jeremy is a very strong guy so I had renewed hope we could make the break stick. As we rode towards the final 1+ mile climb two of the guys were skipping pulls and they were small climber types. Rather than have them jump us on the last climb I began to put in some tough attacks to weaken them before the climb. As we began to climb one of the smaller guys dropped, then my initial break partner went to the front and pushed a nice pace. Now we were about 300 meters from the finish and Jeremy put in an attack which I went with but the last two break partners dropped. With about 100 meters to go I jumped but Jeremy was to strong and I ended up second. I got some good points for my Cat 3 upgrade.

Sunday 5/25 Road Race, by Chris Hansel

This race basically consisted of rollers heading out for the first 8 miles or so and then at 15 mile decent and turn around. The finish was a few mile short of the starting location. Jeremy committed to helping any Vegas riders since he would not be racing the following day. Immediately after turning around the pace went up and the peloton was shredded. Within a couple miles it was down to 6 of us. We traded pulls and by the top two of the guys had put about 150 meters on the other 4 of us. We knew there would be no problem bringing them back on the rollers and felt it would weaken them working with on two guys. We began to bring them back in earnest but miss calculated the finish location and their break stuck. Jeremy put in a great lead out for me and I got 3rd. More Cat 3 upgrade points.

Monday 5/26 Road Race

My view from the break, by Matthew Bishop

We started Stage 3 of the Summit Center Classic with Chris Hansel of Team Penta with the Overall lead in the GC. Ryan and I knew that our duties involved doing everything we could to protect Chris. Right from the start we went to the front of the race, with me riding by Chris on one side and Ryan on the other. I knew my job was to cover anything that went if it looked like it was going to go. At the end of mile one, I was second wheel in the peloton with a rider from Team One in front, Chris was to my left. An rider attacked on the left and got a gap. He was not an experienced rider, that was obvious to all, so no one chased, at first. Once he was out about 50 meters, the Team One rider went after him, and I just stayed on his wheel. Coming along with us was a Honeywell rider. When we caught the rider that had started it there was 5 of us, with most of the major teams represented, all of which had men high in the GC. The next thing I knew we had dropped the guy who started it and we had a minute gap, and we were flying fast. Everyone wanted to get to the hot spot sprint and take the points. My job, with Chris leading the GC, was to sit in and make sure I did not get dropped and to make sure that if we did got caught I was fresh enough to still help Chris. So I sat in only pulling through every 5th rotation or so. We made it to the Hot spot and I took second, with the Team One rider taking first.

Once the break had accomplished the goal taking the Hot Spot points, which meant no one close to Chris would get them (that was a good thing) it reorganized and took off again. The next thing we knew we had two and one-half minutes on the peloton, then three and one-half minutes. We couldn't believe it, but we knew that we had our team mates blocking and doing all they could to discourage any chase. My hope was that Chris was sitting in and doing all he could to conserve his energy for the finish.

The second to last time through the feed zone and the gap had dropped to two minutes, but we knew that if we could get over the wall together they wouldn't catch us. So we stayed together to hear the bell and it was one to go. Knowing that they were not going to catch us, I started working to keep the break away and go for the win. During the last lap I could tell the toll the break had taken on the others as I was easily gapping them on the few hills on the course and the win would be mine for the taking. As we got over the feed hill we knew we had made it and that the break would never be caught.

We continued to work until we got the be bottom of the finish climb and we agreed that we would climb together and sprint for the finish. Then, someone suggested that we cross the line together and all take the win, sharing in the victory that we had ridden so hard for. So with hands in the air, we crossed the line together, four first place finishers. It was a fantastic day, for me and for the Team, adding a win to Chris' second and third finishes in Stage One and Two. Thank you to Chris and Ryan for blocking and helping to keep the break away, without their help, I would not have gotten to experience this win!!

It was a great weekend for Team Penta, lets do it again! Additionally, both Matt and Chris have now upgrade to Cat 3!

Race Report, by Patrick Almeido

Patrick Almeido and Kevin Lancer represented the 35+ category.

The 2nd Annual Lake Las Vegas Triathlon was held at the stunning Hyatt Resort on Sunday, April 27, 2003. Over 400 athletes took part in what has become a premiere triathlon here in Las Vegas. The Resort at Lake Las Vegas offers breathtaking views and challenging terrain. Team Penta was represented by Patrick Almeido and Kevin Lancer both eager to test their early season triathlon fitness. The course this year proved to be much more difficult than last year's as the bike course consisted of 3 laps with several feet of climbing per lap.

The swim took place at the shorelines of Lake Las Vegas in 62 degree water. A bit chilly but the athletes were quick to warm up, as the pace of the lead swimmers was fast and furious. As usual, lots of bumping and grabbing at the front of the pack. Patrick managed to stay with the leaders for most of the swim and came out of the water in 5th place right behind local standout, Danny Murphy. The bike course began to feel like a roller-coaster ride as the course went up, down, up down. Three laps and most were looking forward to the run. Patrick was able to reel in one age grouper on the bike, which put him in 4th place. The run proved difficult itself as the 6K course was mostly off road with several ups and downs on uneven terrain. Patrick managed to hold onto his 4th place position with a solid run. He finished 4th in the 35 - 39 age group and 12th overall.

Kevin put in a stellar swim, which put him in first place (age group) heading onto the bike. Only one age grouper managed to catch him on the bike so heading into the run, Kevin knew he had to put in a strong effort to maintain his position. With grit and determination, Kevin held his position and finished 2nd in the 45 - 49 age group and 26th overall.

It was a difficult day for most but the Lake Las Vegas Triathlon is proving to be a great addition to the triathlon calendar. Mountain Man Events put on a great race with great course management and safety. Looking forward to next year's event.

35+ Race Report, by Chris Hansel

Anthony Luna, Chris Hansel, Jim Robbins, and Lance Coburn represented the 35+ category.

This race was a bit different in that it had 3 stages compacted into two days. Unlike the typical three day format, plus the Crit would come on the first day rather than the last and it would be after the TT. For that reason recovery would be critical post TT.

The course was new to Chris, Jim and Lance. Anthony had ridden the course on a previous occasion. We drove the course on Friday night to get a feel for the terrain. Basically it went out of the city on rough flat roads with two turns, then head up a slight grade, turned right (where we would finish on the way back) and finally continued up with some rollers of which one was especially tough. Anthony, Lance and Jim did not have high expectations for the TT but Chris has had some TT successes for the year and was highly motivated.

TT's are all about suffering and Chris had decided to suffer more than ever before. Chris accelerated off the start and quickly arrived at the second turn and headed up the grade. His heart rate was in the correct zone and the speed was good. Now he began to pick other riders as focal points to catch. As he went past Lance, his first overtake, Lance offered some motivational words. The next person, Chris' 1 minute person, was a US Postal Masters rider. Now that was a goal. As the climbing continued the Postal rider looked to be coming back. At the turn around it was obvious Chris was closing in, having a rider / focal point is always beneficial. Chris was traveling at around 35 MPH on average on the decent. With a couple miles to go Chris ratcheted up the speed and heart rate to do his best to blow up right after crossing the line. With about two hundred yards remaining Chris sprinted to the finish line and shortly there after nearly upchucked. Until other times were turned in it would be unclear how his time would stack up. Finally it was reported Chris had won the TT by 3 seconds against two of the fasted Vegas Time Trialers and a Postal rider. It was very exciting to be leading the event heading into the Crit.

The Crit course was very unusual. It had four corners and a 180 degree turn in the middle of the street which would prove to be troublesome for many and decisive for others.

With Crit specialists in Anthony, Jim, and Lance and with Chris leading the event Team Penta was looking good and was confident. We knew it would be tough to defend the lead as it always is. The race began with a bang, an absolute hammer fest. From the very beginning the pack was strung out, traveling about 30 MPH, and break attempts began to occur on most every lap. Jim, Anthony and Chris were covering them one at a time and feeling good. Louie, from Labor Power, made a break and Chris brought it back. Then the UT riders made their attempts and Jim and Anthony brought them back. Louie took another shot and Chris decided it would probably not work while Jim needed to recover before pursuing. MISTAKE #1 by Chris. As Louie stretched out his solo attack Anthony shot off the front to run him down, he was not coming back easily. Anthony got about half way to him and it looked as though he would make it but it was not to be. The peloton caught Anthony as Louie remained out front. Team Penta then proceeded to work very hard to bring back the break but it was to no avail. As the race was nearing the final laps it was clear we were racing for second place. Out the 180 degree corner on the last lap Anthony was well placed, Chris did not realize it was the bell lap, MISTAKE #2, and Anthony sprinted to a 5th place finish. A great result, especially considering all the work he and the rest of the team had done. Unfortunately for Team Penta, Chris would find himself fall back to 3rd overall after missing out on the sprint by 3+ seconds and Louie's masterful solo break. Going into the Road Race Vegas Velo would have a reasonable shot at 2nd overall due to it being only three seconds out. Only time would tell.

In the road race we had two objectives, move Chris up in the GC and do our best to get a high placing individually. We figured Chris and Anthony would be the main two players at the end due to the climbing required per lap.

On the first lap we headed down the long downhill that lead to a gradual climb, made the right and rode past the lake to the feed zone which was on the toughest hill of the course. The last 100' turn up into a wall. We lost Lance the first time up, actually he made it to the top but felt his heart popping out of his chest so thought it would be smart to back off. Chris lead the field up the hill, closely flanked by the Labor Power guys in first and second place overall. The first lap seen many many break attempts and surges which really sucks the energy out of the legs. Nothing was to get away as we made it around to the second lap. As we once again approached the feed zone hill Chris and Louie lead the field, assuring neither would get away. We lost Jim the second time up the hill as his legs locked up with cramps. This now left it up to Chris and Anthony. After the feed zone hill an 8 mile false flat followed. Chris made a break attempt shortly after the feed zone but was immediately brought back. Now Chris simply began to drag the peloton up the road as this was easier for him than responding to surge after surge. Chris asked Anthony to move to the front and share in the pulling. On a few occasions Chris tried to let Anthony roll off the front for a break attempt but it was not to be, Labor and Postal were watching too close. About half way up the false flat Chris made a big attack on a small hill and gapped the field, Louie was close behind and willing to work if the gap grew. However, the other Labor Power racer and the Postal rider drug the peloton back up. It was becoming quite obvious that between just Anthony and Chris a break would probably not occur. As we approached Hurricane there was one final climb that really hurt Chris so he once again strategized with Anthony telling him to be prepared to go with the break if it occurred and if he was not able to go. As it turned out we all made it over the hill and into town. The last chance we would have to move up in the GC was the last section leading up to the finish. Bob McCall, second in the GC, of Labor Power was having a bit of a tough race so we thought there might be a chance of regaining second in the GC. Chris and Anthony agreed Anthony would dog Bob while Chris would do his best to get the 3 seconds back. As we approached the first hill up to the finish Chris lead the pack, keeping the pace high enough to discourage attacks. Then came the second hill, we knew this hill well since it was in previous years, part of the TT course. As we approached it Anthony commented "this is going to hurt." Well, he was right to say the least, again Chris lead the field, trying to keep the pace high to the top. Just as we were cresting the top Chris seen that Anthony was on Bob, the last plan was in place. Shortly there after a solo attack went off and Chris attempted to follow along with Louie and another rider. Chris then hammered as hard as possible trying to get the 3 seconds back. Shortly before the finish Bob came by so it was not to be. Anthony ended up 4th and Chris ended up 7th.

It was a fun weekend and Team Penta made their presence felt. Great team work, great results, and we came home safe. Great conclusion to the weekend.

Cat 4 Race Report, by Matthew Bishop

Eric Broussard, Matthew Bishop, Ryan Pretner, Joel Davis, Eric Hayes, Todd Gragson, Jason Mauer represented the Cat 4's.

Welcome to sunny Hurricane, Utah, to the Tour of the Storm Stage Race (Formerly known as the Chums Stage Race). Under new event management and with a revised format, the race was sure to be a challenge. Stage One consisted of a new 20K course, which incorporated a gradual climb that was sure to get the legs burning. Stage Two, also new, was a tight Criterium course with very technical 180-degree hairpin turn intended to string things out. Stage Three on Sunday remained the same Quail Creek loop as used in previous years. The Cat 4 race incorporated two laps, which meant two times up the feed hill, a 90 second interval at 400 watts to stay with the lead group, with the final stretch covering the old time trial course, which had a nasty

The team attacked the stage with a mix of emotions, not knowing what was in store for them on the new course. The time trial specialists figured the course was flat enough for time trial bikes and full disk wheels. The non-specialists attacked the course with clip-on aero bars. Everyone on the team did well, with Eric Broussard placing the highest at 10th. The trick now was to recover in a short few hours for the Crit.

The Crit started out fast and stayed that way. Because of the shape of the course the best position was at the front as there was nowhere to recover if you had to chase at the back. Starting on the first lap the attacks started and the field started to feel the pain. The stage and race winner went to the front and started to push the pace. Soon the race was one single file/double file line and the carnage began. With the field strung out, riders at the back of the field were slowing down to get around the hairpin turn, and the leaders where already around the next. Slowly but surly riders started to get gaped and pulled from the race. Joel, Eric, Eric, and Jason all stayed with the main field, preserving there GC positions. With 5 laps to go, Dave, the stage winner left the field and did a solo break for the win. The main field stayed together and competed for second in a bunch sprint.

Going into the stage, Eric still held 10th in the GC. The team decided to do what it could to get Eric a few places better. Lap one the field stayed together over all the climbs. Ryan spent time at the front playing police man setting tempo and watching for a move. As the second lap began escape artists started to play their hands and get away. Ryan Eric, and Eric, all gave it a try in an attempt to get something going, but the field stayed together to the bottom of the hill. As we hit the hill the race split into three groups. The lead group, which was driven buy the eventual stage and GC winner, got the top first with 5 guys and immediately took off. Ryan, our team climber, went with the second group with the remainder of the team being in the third. Then the chase began with those team members in the third group putting in a good chase and picking up people along the way. In the end, the whole team finished the race with Eric as our highest GC at 12th.

Expert Race Report, by Chris Hansel

Chris Hansel, Eric Broussard, Joel Davis, Eric Hayes, Ryan Pretner, and Shane Broussard represented Team Penta in the Expert Class race.

The Expert race has a nice sized group as all the experts competed against each other rather than breaking down by age.

The race began on a fire road and quickly made a right on another fire road which was a great way to start the race, plenty of room for passing from the start. Immediately Jeremy Brouck shot off the front with Team Penta racers Eric Hays and Joel Davis in hot pursuit. Team Penta's Chris Hansel was roughly in the middle of the pack and moved up with Mike Hileman and Team Penta's Shane Broussard doing the same to stay in touch with the leaders. For much of the first lap Eric continued to shadow Jeremy, Chris moved up to Joel before passing him and moving up to Eric. Eric then began to drop back a bit, Chris passed Eric, and began to pursue Jeremy. By this time Jeremy was about 50 yards off the front. After the first little ridge climb the order stood as follows; Jeremy, Chris, Mike, and Shane. While flying down the fire road that followed this section Chris made a navigational error letting Mike and Shane by. Between getting back on trail, the frustration, and a now red lined heart rate Chris gapped Mike and Shane and began to fall back. Mike set a strong and very consistent pace with Shane shadowing his every move. By the end of the first lap Jeremy had continued to lead, Mike and Shane held their positions, and Chris continued to fade. In a case like this, Chris fading, an expert race is better as it provides more time to recover.

The next two laps continued without change. Chris knew with 3 laps to go the race was only half over and whatever was lost could be gained back. Part of the problem Chris was having related to his not riding his MTB off road since the last race of the 2002 season about 7 months previous and his legs were not accustom to the pounding peddling of off road.

By the 4th lap Chris' legs began work better and better which allow him to begin the reeling in process of Mike and Shane who he could still see about 300 yards ahead. While slowly gaining time there was a point where Mike and Shane all of sudden split and Mike was about 50 to 100 yards ahead of Shane. It appeared Shane was going backwards quickly. By the end of the 4th lap Chris had caught Shane who then mentioned he had fallen while passing some lappers. This explained the Mike and Shane gap that happened so quickly. For the next half lap Shane shadowed Chris while they continued to reel in Mike. Chris knew if he was to retain 3rd or even get 2nd he would have to put in a strong effort on the small climbs to shake Shane and possibly catch Mike. On the first climb Chris gapped Shane and after topping the ridge seen Mike at the bottom and off his bike. Chris and Shane had closed down the gap significantly and Mike was surprised to see 3rd and 4th place so close. Mike had taken a rock sample and was straightening his bars as Chris passed. This was Chris' opportunity to gap Mike as well by putting in a strong effort over the next ridge. After descending this ridge Chris looked over his shoulder and seen there was about a 150 yard gap to Mike and Shane.

Now it was time to reel in Jeremy and there was 1.5 laps to complete the task. From the high spots on the course Chris could not see Jeremy so catching him was probably not possible unless he had a problem so the goal became staying ahead of Mike and Shane while pushing hard to catch Jeremy. Mike was once again setting a strong and consistent pace with Shane shadowing his every move.

At the end Chris maintained a gap on Mike and Shane while Jeremy went on to win. Shane shadowed Mike all the way up the finishing climb but opted not to attempt a pass, I assume out of competitive courtesy since Mike was setting the pace for much of the race. Great race and a good time, thanks to Richard Craig of ProCyclery for promoting a fun local event.

Sport Race Report, by Matt Bishop

Matt Bishop and Todd Greggson, represented Team Penta in the Expert Class race.

Etc, Etc...

Cat 3 Race Report, by Jim Robbins

Chris Hansel, Eric Broussard, Mathew Bishup, Patrick Almeido, Joel Davis, Todd Gragson, Eric Hayes and Jason Mauer represented Team Penta in the Cat 4 race.

The race started with the usual suspects pushing the pace early and fast was the order of the day at the Ontario Grand Prix. Attacks were constant and I rode the front keeping watch for any promising breaks. A group of riders from La Grange and Helens went off with a couple of Zombie riders for good measure. With all the big teams represented I figured this could go so I bridged a straight away and made it up to the group. We stayed off for 2 laps before the field reeled us in. At this point I started setting up for the sprint and played off of the Zombie guys as I did not have any team mates for lead outs. As we came around the last corner into a long straight with a head wind I wanted to start from the 12-15th position as I thought riders would die in the long approach. Almost perfect, I wound it up and managed a great sprint placing of 7th and in the money. The good news is I easily passed the first place guy about two meters from the line so if I had started a little earlier I am quite positive I would have won the race. Be ready for Utah...

Cat 4 Race Report, by Jason Mauer

Chris Hansel, Eric Broussard, Mathew Bishup, Patrick Almeido, Joel Davis, Todd Gragson, Eric Hayes and Jason Mauer represented Team Penta in the Cat 4 race.

The Team Penta crew was looking good for the Redlands classic criterium events. We were there in force and looking prepared for the Cat 4 event. From the pre-race team warmup until the final sprint the team looked good. Though we were slow to stage for the race, which resulted in starting grid spots near the back of the peloton, the team members were able to work their way up to the front of the pack within a few hot initial laps. With strong work at the front by Chris Hansel the team was able to collect a few primes and team/sponsor recognition by the race announcer. As the race heated up for the final laps, Pat Almeido put in strong surge to string out the field and set up the sprinters for the final lap. The start of the last lap saw a solo move off the front by a La Grange racer and this started the chase to the finish line. On the back straight of the 0.7 mile circuit Jason Mauer came from 4th place in the field to give chase with a string of racers in tow. Out of the final corner with 60 yards to go Jason looked to be gaining on the lone flyer. Unfortunately he came up 3 feet short and was pipped by a drafting rider at the line to take home a hard earned 3rd place for Team Penta. Better luck next time.

40+ Race Report, by Anthony Luna

Anthony Luna, Chris Hansel, and Lance Coburn represented Team Penta in the 40+ race.

The Redlands classic, 40+ was a fast race, but for Chris, Lance,and I, we managed very well. The field for the most part are some of the same people we have been racing against.There were several break attempt's which I chased down two, Chris was working the front as well, it was exciting to see that we were mixing it up just with the few guy's that we had in the race. With two lap's to go there was a crash which missed my mojo up which got me a 12th place, but it's all good.

Cat 3 Race Report, by Jim Robbins

Team Penta had three riders in the Cat 3 crash fest at Redlands. Jim Robbins, Sergio Inguiz, and Roger Williams did a good job of keeping the skinny side down and avoiding the pile ups in the corners.

The race started out fast and the heat was on the entire race. Sergio took a nice flier off the front during the middle of the race and Jim moved up to the front to disrupt the pace line. He stuck it out there for a couple of laps and even counter attacked after the field caught up. Attacks were constant but this race with its gradual uphill straight away kept the field honest and the set up for the sprint started early with two strong riders from Helens leading the field around for the last three laps. Jim was in good position going into the last two corners but a rider from the 7-Up team crashed next to him in the last corner and took him off line. Jim avoided the crash and still contested the sprint from further back. He ended up in 12th with Sergio and name not far behind.

35+ Cat 4/5, By Patick Almeido

The 35+ Cat 4/5 race proved to be a culmination of team strategies and practices that we have been working on over the last several weeks. Team Penta was represented by Patrick Almeido, Joel Davis, Todd Gragson, Chris Hansel, Eric Hayes and Jason Mauer.

The team had a formulated plan at the beginning of the race, but as in life, plans always change. Chris Hansel seized an opportunity early in the 40 minute criterium to breakaway from the field with two other riders. However, Chris was much too strong for the other two and found himself out front, alone. Team Penta responded and moved to the front of the field to block. The team worked together liked a well-oiled machine covering every attack and exchanging positions at the front. Our team was so strong that the field became frustrated with our blocking tactics. Several riders began to elbow and push their way past Team Penta. At one point, a rider from another team grabbed Patrick by the hip and pulled his way past him. Needless to say it got a little intense. Meanwhile, off the front, Chris was riding the time trial of his life trying to hold onto his lead. He started collecting so many Primes, that the announcer tried to stir things up a bit by offering field primes to entice the rest of the pack. With 5 laps to go, the pace of the field started to pick up. Team Penta felt the effort of maintaining the front for most of the race but continued to hang on and keep Chris off the front. Chris rode like a man possessed but unfortunately was caught with ½ lap to go. The field sprint started to wind up and Team Penta found themselves a bit tired from their extraordinary effort. Jason Mauer managed a top 10 finish and both Patrick and Chris cracked the top 15.

This was truly our best team effort of the season. Our support of Chris’s breakaway effort was a true test of endurance, grit and tactics. We covered every attack and exchanged positions at the front with fluidity and consistency. Todd, Jason, Joel, Eric and Patrick are to be commended for their teamwork and selflessness. And for Chris, he truly deserved the abundance or prizes he took home from his effort. This was an outstanding team event with great exposure, positive results and true teamwork. Great Job to all!

30+ Cat 1,2,3 Race Report, by Lance Coburn

Jim Robbins and Lance Coburn represented Team Penta in the 30+ Cat 1,2,3 race.

Team Penta fielded two riders in this blistering 60 minute event - Jim Robbins and Lance Coburn. With the prize list going only 6 places deep, the pace began furiously and then picked up. A select group went off the front at just past the half-way point in the race, never to be seen again. Jim and Lance were often spotted at the front giving chase, but all the places were up the road and the strong contingent of Labor Power representatives effectively nullified each and every chasing effort. Congratulations to the Labor Power machine for another fine job of controlling the race. Although significantly out-manned in the finale, Jim unleashed his wicked sprint to finish 6th in the field for yet another fine top 15 finish. Well done, James!

By Lance Coburn

On Sunday, March 30, four of our team memebers competed at the criteriums held at the lightening fast Irwindale Speedway in Southern Cal. Here is a breakdown of the races in which Team Penta members competed.

Cat. IV

Cat. III

Jim Robbins did a fine job in riding this race without any teammates to protect him and, in typical "stay at the front" Robbins style, pushed lots of wind in the effort. In the only field that finished with a breakaway, Jim had a huge audience looking at the backside of his fine Louis Garneau kit while he consistently realed in move after move. While his constant stay at the front kept him out of trouble, it took a toll by the end of the race and Jim was not able to unleash his wicked sprint. However, Jim did an awesome job of flying the team colors at the front of the field all day.

Pro I/II

On the comeback trail, ("Little") Lance Coburn was able to throw a tow rope on the quick field and finish the 70 minute race. It could be a while before we see results from Lance, whose main focus will be to help Anthony Luna beat the big dogs to the line in upcoming events.

35+

Jim, David, Jason and Lance competed admirably in the 35+ race, with a good rotation toward the front of the field. Jim and Jason gave it a bid in the sprint, with fine finishes in the top 25-30. Jim and Jason's strong riding and increasing confidence bode well for the team in the future, when then join up with strongmen Luna and Hansel in upcoming races.

By Patrick Almeido

Patrick Almeido represented Team Penta.

The resort at Lake Las Vegas played host to the first annual Xterra Off Road Triathlon sponsored by Nissan. The Xterra Triathlon Series hosts nationwide races throughout the year ending with the World Championships held in Maui, Hawaii . Over 165 participants took part in this inaugural event and braved chilly water temperatures (58 °F ) and rough terrain.

Patrick Almeido represented Team Penta in the Sprint race. The swim was a mass of whailing arms and legs as everyone jockeyed for position to the first turn. It was one of the more challenging swims as 165 participants all took off at once resulting in a lot of pushing, kicking and grabbing in the water. It was reminiscent of a high school swim party. Patrick managed a strong swim and came out of the water tied for the lead. A fast transition put him in first place onto the bike. The Mt. Bike course rolled through fire roads behind the Hyatt at Lake Las Vegas. Most of the roads were extremely rocky and washed out from recent rains. Tire pressure became the question of the day as riders contemplated between traction and pinch flats. One local rider flatted three times!

Patrick held onto his lead throughout most of the bike portion but with less than 2 miles to go, he was caught and passed on the last steep climb (Note to self: Need to ride Mt. Bike more often). Heading into turn two , Patrick was firmly in 2nd place, 45 seconds behind the leader. The 5K run was an out-and-back that took the athletes over two challenging hills. Patrick was able to finish with a strong run but was unable to catch the leader. He finished 2nd Overall and 1st in the 35-39 age group. It was an awesome day and we hope more races like this will continue to take place in the Las Vegas Valley. A special thanks to The Bike Shop as well as Bill and Colleen Corey for supporting the race.

35+ Team, by Chris Hansel

Anthony Luna, Chris Hansel, Jim Robbins, Gaspare Sidoti (Gas), Nicolo Pirera (Nip), Davide Posca (Doc), and Jason Mauer represented the 35+ category.

Thursday 03/06 Time Trial

Anthony prepared for some TT pain.

The opening time trial was an uphill, 8-mile race with 2800 feet of climbing thrown in to make things interesting. As with most time trials, this one set the tone for the rest of the stage race. Team Penta composed a team of seven contending for podium honors in the 35+ division, 3 of which were friends in town from Italy. When the final time trial results were posted, Team Penta had secured 4 spots in the top 25 out of a total of 76. Doc, showing the best performance of the team, captured second place and just 46 seconds behind the leader. Now the strategy became protecting Doc's place in the field while at the same time help him make it into a break in order to gain time on the leader and secure the overall lead for Team Penta.

Friday 03/07 Circuit Race

Chris pulling the pack during the Circuit Race at the Pomona Valley Stage Race! Photo courtesy of PhotoCrazy.com

The 2.2 mile course was nestled in a beautiful Southern California setting complete with white cap mountains in the background. Even though this event was considered a circuit race, it appeared much more like an hour and 10 minute Criterium. Our strategy had not changed from the previous day. We wanted to contain any major breaks that did not include Doc; and, if we could get Doc in a break, we would do our best to keep the break away from the rest of the pack. Over the first half of the race there were various break attempts but Team Penta and other teams were able to pull them back. We were also concerned about our sprinters: Anthony, Jim, and Gas who are all good at being in the right place at the end of the race. As such, Chris and Nip spent a lot of time at the head of the race helping to assure the pack was honest and stayed together. At about three quarters of the way through the race, a break escaped opening a gap of about 200 yards ahead of the Peloton. At this point, Doc stepped on the gas and chased down the breakaway. Chris and Jason, at the front of the trailing group, did a great job of keeping everyone else honest and were in good position to block if needed while Doc closed on the breakaway. As things turned out, Team Penta had a bit of a miss cue; the break and unfortunately Doc were all brought back to the main pack. The focus now was on the sprint and protecting Doc's overall time in the GC. Team Penta was well positioned for the sprint and it ended with Anthony securing 10th, Jim with 12th, Jason with 22nd; Doc was safe in the pack and did not loose or gain time.

Saturday 03/08 Road Race

Doc of Team Penta winning the Pomona Valley Stage Race!
Photo courtesy of PhotoCrazy.com

In the road race we remained true to our initial strategy. Our goal in the was to get Doc into a break and then control the Peloton so Doc could gain enough time to take over the lead. The course was a tough one: about 8 miles with 4 climbs per lap and an elevation gain of 500 feet per lap. The race culminated in 8 laps and 4000 feet of climbing, ouch! With our goals being much like the previous day the race began… Before completing the first lap, Jim hit a big pothole and before long had a rear flat putting him out of contention altogether. Jason was having trouble with the hills so it was down to Chris, Anthony, and our Italian teammates. There were various break attempts during the first half of the race but none were successful. Team Penta was biding time looking for the right opportunity launch Doc into a successful break. Doc decided it was time to go so he and Thurlow Rogers made an attempt on the last climb of the course to drop the peloton; they were not successful. However, Doc, Thurlow and a couple of others took advantage of this spot once again, and this time they succeeded. Team Penta's strategy was set in motion, it now became Team Penta's job to protect Doc's break and control the rest of the Peloton. Of note here and and a show of great teamwork and strategy on Team Penta's part was the fact that the others in the break with Doc did not have team members there to help them out. In addition, Labor Power, one of the strongest teams, was not even successful organizing a chase. As Doc chipped away at the time gap, Chris, Anthony, Nip, and Gas went to work for the next 4 laps successfully controlling the race. Every time a chase or break was attempted one of us was on it driving the rest of the competitors crazy! It was music to our ears each time the USCF official reported the time gap it was growing between Doc's breakaway group and the peloton. We knew Doc was in 1st place on the road and we still had to control the race to the end. On the last lap, Team Penta did our best for the stage finish. Doc beat Thurlow in the final sprint for the win, Anthony got 16th, and Gas was 18th. An excellent outing and fantastic teamwork!

Sunday 03/09 Criterium

Now that Team Penta had the overall lead sewed up so long as Doc finished the race without loosing time, we all knew our job in the Crit. If Doc could make a break all the better, but it was not necessary. Once again, there were various break attempts that Team Penta and other teams controlled with one break actually getting a good gap but Doc was in it! Anthony and Jim were staying in top 15 most of the time. Because of Doc's standing, they were not required to do a lot of the pulling and work which would keep them fresh for the finish. Chris, Nip, and Gas did their best to control the field while Doc was off in the one break. Unfortunately, the break was brought back in and now it was up to Doc to finish in the pack and for Anthony and Jim to finish well in the sprint. Going into the last corner of the last lap Anthony was in about 5th, followed by Jim, and then Chris. It looked like the perfect setup for the sprint. During the last lap Anthony and Jim separated from Chris and moved up with Chris settling on Thurlow's wheel shortly before the last corner. Typically Thurlow's wheel is a good place to be in the last corner. As the sprint formulated, Anthony and Jim successfully moved up finishing 6th and 11th respectively. Chris finished 17th narrowly avoiding a Labor Power rider who clipped the wheel of another racer and sprawled out in the middle of the road.

Recap

Doc of Team Penta on the podium after winning the Pomona Valley Stage Race overall!

Overall another very successful race weekend for the Team Penta 35+ team.

Thank God we all came home safe considering the riggers and risks with racing along with driving the 15 Freeway between Los Angeles and Las Vegas (one of the most dangerous stretches of freeway in the US). There were 2 rollovers in route home and another crash that consisted of a Semi and two Tour Buses. There were approximately 100 injuries with 8 being critical. We could all stand to say a prayer for the injured.

Next we go to the Redlands Classic in Redlands California for Crit racing.

Cat 3 Team, by Josh Underwood

Sergio Iniguez and Josh Underwood represented the 35+ category.

Thursday 03/06 Time Trial

The first day would take us up the painful 8 mile climb up Glendora Mt. Road and ultimately determine the GC. I was skeptical as to how my legs would be after riding in the Valencia Stage Race just days before. Expecting to suffer, I did just that the first half of the climb. However, I found my legs and hammered to the finish feeling better all the time. I was both surprised I had so much at the top and disappointed it wasn't all left on the hill. My time, 36:55, 28th among the 3's. Sergio clocked in at a very respectable 38:53

Friday 03/07 Circuit Race

Day 2 took the Cat 3's 75 minutes around a mostly flat 2.5 mile course. Sergio and I both noted an uneasiness about this race early as guys seemed to be somewhat careless. I narrowly escaped a crash and observed several other close calls. We patiently made our way up through the field and stayed near the front after mid-race. Nobody stayed off the front too long on this day and it was apparent it would end in a field sprint. On the long straight before the final turn, Sergio went to the front with me on his wheel and we hoped to control the corner. However, the line collapsed and we went through the turn several riders wide. I was pinned coming out, it seemed nearly coming to a stop as guys swarmed past me. The sprint to the finish was a very long one though and as guys faded I was able to salvage an 11th place finish. Having sacrificed himself doing a masterful job of positioning us the final lap, Sergio came across 36th with the same time.

Saturday 03/08 Road Race

The Cat 3 road race was 72 miles that seemed longer than that as counting down from 9 laps makes you think too much. The pace was fast throughout and though things would spread out some on the climbs, none of them were long enough to significantly scatter the field. However, 2 riders who went off the front on the 2nd to last lap benefited from some odd circumstances. Shortly after going through the start-finish area for the final lap, we were caught by the Pro field. While our race was slowed by an official for several minutes, the opportunistic riders stretched their lead. One of them would be brought back, the other would go on to win the stage by almost 2 minutes. With a couple miles to go, Sergio again did a brilliant job of positioning us at the front. Coming towards the final straight I was sitting perfectly among the top 5 but hurting, while fighting off cramps. I could not respond when the final sprint commenced and faded to 23rd, hardly doing justice to Sergio's hard work.

Sunday 03/09 Criterium

The Crit course was one we suspected might favor a break and we planned on getting off the front with a few other guys if the opportunity presented itself after a prime or spot sprint lap. After a brief attack however, I knew this was not my day as my legs were cooked. For whatever reason this race was marred by several crashes, either very tired bike riders or overly aggressive racing was the cause. The series of crashes, eventually forced officials to stop the race as extra ambulances were rounded up to remove bodies from the course. (Seriously, I hope everyone is okay. Two riders were down for quite some time). With the carnage on the course and the condition of my legs, I resigned myself to simply finishing with all my skin. The race re-started with 3 laps to go and Sergio, getting stronger by the day, made his way towards the front. He was able to keep a wheel and hold his position into the final sprint and finished 8th, our best result of the race.

Recap

Overall a great racing experience. I think both Sergio and I feel our fitness is well ahead of this time last year. I know I learned a great deal as this MTB rider is still pretty green on the road. I was also impressed by just how competitive nature of the Cat 3 field. Hopefully, we can eventually draw some more members on this team and do some damage for Team Penta in the 3's.

Cat 4 Team, by Patrick Almeido

Patrick Almeido, Eric Hayes, Joel Davis, Steve Pearce, Ryan Pretner, Bryan Manning, Todd Gragson & Eric Broussard (back from a broken collarbone) provided for a strong team.

Uphill Time Trial

Circuit Race

Road Race

Criterium

Sunday's Crit was the final stage. We awoke feeling a bit tired and sore, however Jason Mauer was quick to remind us that most of the other riders are feeling the same way. The criterium took place on an "L" shaped course with high-speed turns and a FAST downhill to the finish. Right from the whistle, Team Penta moved to the front and rode aggressively. Eric Hayes immediately went for the first Prime but was nipped at the line. Patrick Almeido stayed near the front and covered an attack on lap 3. With only two riders heading to the start finish line, he went for the Prime and won himself a nice Giro helmet. However the effort took the steam out of his sail and he spent the remainder of the Crit recovering near the back. Halfway through the race, an attack put three riders off the front and left a reluctant peloton refusing the chase. Eric Broussard put in an awesome effort as he, single handedly, attempted to pull the group back together. With two laps to go, Eric put in another surge to try and move Todd Gragson into position for the sprint. Unfortunatel, their efforts exhausted both riders forcing them to slip back on the final lap. Joel Davis stayed towards the front and sprinted to a 6th place finish. Joel is proving to be a savvy road racer with an uncanny ability to stay towards the front when needed. The rest of the group finished strong and I think I can speak for all us when I say, we were glad it was over. The team is coming into form and this stage race proved to be a valuable experience for the remainder of the season.

02/2003

The day's races were held on the traditional Ontario grand prix course configured with 7 turns over 1.2 miles. The day was cool and overcast with only a slight breeze that made for perfect racing conditions. As in past years, the turnout was huge with 966 riders participating.

Cat 4 Team, by Steve Pearce

Eric Hayes, Joel Davis and Steve Pearce represented the Cat 4's.

Men 30+ 4/5 Race - The field limit was supposed to be 100 but somehow 125 riders were lined-up at the start-finish line for this 45 minute event. This made for a nerve racking 4/5 race. The pace was inconsistent, but at sometimes very fast due to the seemingly continuous announcement of prime laps. We did our best to ride at the front, but with the constant surges coming up both sides of the pack it was easy to suddenly slip back 30 to 40 riders between just 2 or 3 turns. As may be expected with so many riders, the bumping and pushing and near misses occurred frequently. With just 2 laps to go and the pace really cooking, we were sitting in about the top third of the pack, but were not together. This may have been to our benefit, as a puncture took down about seven riders including Steve. Eric and Joel finished near the front of the pack, but were too far back to contest for the sprint finish.

Masters Race Report by Steve Pearce

The brave, but lonely, Victor Rodriguez represented the Masters.

Masters 45+ - Victor single handedly took on another 98 riders for this race. He did a great job by staying right at the front, usually in the top ten places. However, no rider with out team mates was prevailing today so when it came down to the last several laps, Victor slipped back out of the top ten.

Master 40+ and Men Pro 1/2/3 - Victor was not to be discouraged by being the only racer from the team in his categories. He entered in two more races both with huge fields. The Men Pro 1/2/3 was his third race and by far the fastest. Being out gunned, Victor sat-in, waiting for opportunities, but none were to come his way. He rode smooth and strong all day, but wasn't able to overcome the power of team work.

35+ Race Report, by Anthony Luna

Anthony Luna, Chris Hansel, Jim Robbins, Lance Coburn, and Jason Mauer represented the 35+ category.

Saturday 2/22 Road Race - This stage consisted of two laps of 33 miles each, totaling 66 miles and predominantly flat. The plan for the day was, if there were any brake away, we would work to get Chris in the brake. The second part of the plan was to have Jason and Lance keep Anthony protected and for Anthony to be there for the sprint finish. Jim was the worker and monitored the front keeping things under control. Half way through 2 guys got off the front without being covered. We expected they would get tired so the group did not chase them. Unfortunately they did not get tired and eventually the group did chase, with combined forces - the break was caught at the towards the end with just a few miles to go. Chris and Jim brought Anthony to the sprint as planned, even though their was a huge crash before the finish line in the Cat 3 race which we had all but caught by the end. Anthony, with the help of the team and good decision making (that is called experience and savvy), finished 4th in the sprint. An awesome finish considering the absolute chaos at the end with guys laying all over the road, cars blocking for the down riders, etc.

Sunday 2/23 Criterium - The race course had a 2 block slight up-hill and 4 turns on the decent with one of the "straights" actually being more of a shakain. All the moves (and work) were done on the climb which broke things up. Team Penta attempted the same plan, but unfortunately it didn't succeed as we wanted. Chris pulled most of the first lap with Anthony then pulling for a couple laps but that was when 6 guys got off the front and we missed the break. Chris and Jim were out of position, not expecting such and early break, and Anthony had just come off the front. We did manage to get Jim up in the field sprint, which gave him a 13th placing. Chris got 19th and Anthony got 18th and 9th for the overall. We even took a little money home for the Team Penta account.

We will get them next time!!!!! The COOL thing was we were and are being recognized as a team in the hunt.

Cat 4 Race Report, by Bryan Manning

Bryan Manning, Eric Broussard, Todd Gragson, Ryan Pretner, and Dave McCormick represented the Cat 4's.

Friday 21, Dash for Cash

The dash for cash was a interesting race for those of you that have never attend this part of the race. It is a 100 yard dash against 8 other guys, and depending on the amount of riders in the race is how many heats are run. This event is not run very effeciently in many riders opinon. Team Penta had Bryan M., and Eric B. make it in to the final heat with Bryan taking 4th in what was an extremly fast main. The evening didnt end until almost midnight though so one has to wonder is it really worth the hassle's.

Saturday 22, Welleton Road Race

The road race was 66 miles and Team Penta executed a perfect race for 65 of them. We sent the early move on lap one consisting of Ryan P. and a rider from SDBC, but SDBC couldnt sustain the pace of Pretner and after about 10 minutes he cracked and with that the pack quickly reeled the two back. We then sent Todd G. up the road on the start of the second lap with a rider from Const. Zone, and a rider that we are trying to recruit Matt Bishop from S.L.C. Utah. The three of them seemed to be gone and it looked like we might have put a rider in the winning move, but it wasnt to be, and two teams moved to the front to start the chase. Eric and Bryan tried to block the field and mess with the rotations, but after about 25 minutes that break was also brought back to the "grupetto" at this point the whole field was tired from all the work., and a rider from Honeywell jumped soloing away from the field at about 15 miles to go and it looked as if we might be racing for second all the sudden. As honeywell got farther away and closer to the finish the pack finally decided to react and started to chase once again and thank god that they did because we were only able to catch him about 1 mile out. At this point something happened at the front and Ryan P. hit the ground in a hard 25 mph crash that would have sent most crying home to mommy( yes this is the second one in two weeks, in two races) but he jumped right up and finished his race in true Team Penta style still beating quite a few fours still coming to terms with the course. Now the race was all back together for a bunch sprint, And it looked as if Bryan was in perfect position for a race winning move but in the last 250 yards the field got nervous in the bunch sprint and someone went down taking out Bryan's wheels in the process and all hopes of a high place finish for Team Penta. We all left a little disappointed about the results, especially after all the work we did to control the race, but with tomorrow's crit comes a new day.

Sunday 23, Downtown Crit

The crit started under a very hot Yuma sun (90*) perfect for Vegas riders. The crit was a new course from years past and had the new addition of a steep little hill (4-5%) that you had to climb each lap. With the crit being 30 minutes long that meant 20 laps up the hill. It was going to be a long 30 min. Right from the start the other teams attacked us for the prior days road race. For five laps the pace was as fast as the four's could go eliminating a lot of the field right away. For the next ten laps everybody just tried to hold position over the climb each time to reserve energy for the final five to go. With five to go Eric and Bryan were the only Team Penta riders left in the field, and they started they're move to the front. Then lap two to go came and again (love those 4's) a crash came this time on top of the hill of all places. Eric and Bryan were both caught behind the crash but somehow able to still chase back on for the final lap and as we ascended the hill one last time another rider crashed again at the top of the climb. Eric and Bryan were both caught out once again and by the time they got back to the field, they were crossing the finish line and Bryan got either a 9th or 10th, with Eric B. just behind that about 5 seconds for 11th or 12th.

Summary of 4's race

The results from this weekend were not impressive but the team work that was displayed on saturday in the road race was for me and the other individuals involved one of the best expierence in a race ever , you could actually see the tactics working and being applied as if almost being done by a pro team GOOD WORK Guys! Its to bad that a couple of crashs had to ruin a perfect weekend but that is racing. See you on the next Team Penta training ride, and start thinking about Pomona Valley!

35+ Race Report, by Chris Hansel

Anthony Luna, Chris Hansel, Jim Robbins, David McCormick, and Jason Mauer represented the 35+ category.

There may have been a bit of intimidation with the participation of the US Postal Masters team, the best Labor Power had to offer, along with the standard set of ex Pro's and Cat 1, 2's that are always in a 35+ race. However, as Anthony put it so well: "we all put our pants on one leg at time."

The racers reported that the course felt up hill both ways and the road was rather bumpy maximizing the psychological element and perceived pain. Chris Hansel posted the best time trial time of 30:10, placing him in 20th overall among about 60 racers. Anthony encountered a snag on his run, he began to flat at the turn around point, but continued undeterred and rode with a flat for the last few miles; still posting a respectable time.

The Road Race was a bit of a challenge with 3.5 laps required to complete event. In addition, the course included a 2 mile climb that the participants encountered 4 times and culminated at the finish atop the final hill. Anthony and Jim committed to work for Chris who had the best chance of a top 20 finish in the GC. As an awesome show of true teamwork, Jim pulled Chris to the front for each of the climbs on laps 1, 2, and 3 saving Chris energy.

Chris, Jim, and Anthony stayed in the lead pack for the last time up the hill and onto the finish. Chris put in a good pull about 3/4 of the way up the hill and then Anthony moved to pace Chris towards the finish. About the time Anthony was ready to pull off the front another pack surge went of the front and Chris responded finishing 13th. A great result for the team and fantastic show of sacrifice and team work! Chris moved up to 19 overall!

The Crit would see Chris swapping roles and helping Crit specialists: Anthony, Jim, and Jason. Chris only needed to finish with the pack to retain a top 20 finish. From the start, Anthony moved to the front and held a top spot for the entire race. Jim rode slightly back from Anthony and Chris behind Jim. Anthony executed a couple strong surges keeping the field honest. With about 2.5 laps to go, the US Postal guys made a strategic move by slowing the main field pace while their sprinters moved to the front of the pack on the inside. Chris unfortunately got caught up Postal's move removing him from a position to help Anthony or Jim. Anthony, however, was in the top 10 and ready for a strong finish; 7th place. Jim followed at 21st, and Chris was 28th.

Finally, Chris placed 18th overall in the GC moving up another spot from his Crit performance. Overall Team Penta showed very well in our first Team Race and we hope to continue our success and improve as the year progresses. Racing and winning is all about teamwork (together everyone achieves more).

Cat 3 Team, by Sergio Iniguez

Sergio Iniguez represented the Cat 3’s.

Luckily VOS was mainly flat, otherwise I would'nt have been able to finish with the pack. I felt good going into the TT despite having been off the bike for 5 days due to symptoms of overtraining. At the start of the TT I felt like I had good legs but then realized that was not the case when the 30 sec man caught me on the out leg. I must be honest overall I felt disappointed, but kept reminding myself that now would not be my time.

The RR was actually one of the easier races I've raced in. The course was fast and the pack hung together until about a quarter of a mile from the finish. Fortunately the climb wasn't super hard otherwise I would have gotten mega dropped.

The Crit was a turning point for me. I say that because I knew exactly where I stood in the food chain.... towards the bottom! It didn't help either that I had the added pressure to perform well in front of about 10 family members cheering me on. It must have been the cheering because I made a concious effort to move up towards the end. Sure enough with about 5 laps to go I was sitting comfortably in about 20th. My plan to move up on the last lap was derailed when a fellow racer kept having derailleur problems every time he got out of the saddle. After a near fall from Mr. Idontbelieve-in-tuneups I suggested to him that he do us all a favor and quit. Luckily he accepted my wise advice and pulled off, in the meantime tried to regain my lost places. However by that time we were going into the second to the last corner and as they say the rest is history.....30th would be my place. The biggest thing for me though was that I was starting to feel mucho better.

Cat 4 Race Report by Patrick Almeido

Steve Pearce, Ryan Pretner, Joel Davis, Eric Hayes and Patrick Almeido represented the Cat 4’s.

Fridays TT proved, once again, to be pivotal on the outcome of this race. Steve Pearce posted the best time for the 4’s powering out a 31:17, which placed him in 28th, place overall. No small feat considering Steve clips a pair of TT bars on his road bike and hammers away. Proves the point that a fast bike does not necessarily lead to a fast time. The new course this year offered challenging (bumpy) terrain and the wet conditions slowed our times.

Saturday’s road stage started out at a respectable pace heading out towards the first climb. A dropped water bottle “woke up” the peloton early on and almost sent several riders to the pavement. Typical for the 4’s. The pack split at the first short climb with Ryan, Steve, Joel and Eric staying with the lead group. Ryan moved up strategically on the last lap heading for the final climb. As he moved to the front, he found himself blocked several times by Team Construction Zone who showed some savvy team tactics for a Category 4 team. Steve P. stayed with the lead group and finished 28th overall in the road race with Ryan, Joel and Eric close behind.

Sundays Criterium was another exciting adventure for the Group. With a pre-race strategy in tact, we took to the streets of downtown Phoenix in an effort to put Steve in position to move up in the G.C. Ryan P. has some problems from the get go when he couldn’t clip in and took a tumble at the start line. He fought hard to catch on to the tale end of the pack when he clipped a pedal in turn one and hit the pavement. Ryan refused to give up and ended up finishing the race with the group. Meanwhile back in the middle of the pack, Steve, Eric, Joel and Patrick stayed together like a well season teamed. However, our inability to move up sooner led to our downfall as a bad crash with 5 laps to go split the pack. Steve got caught up in the middle of it all while Joel, Eric and Patrick managed to get around the mayhem. However, a lead group of about 15 riders seized this opportunity to separate themselves from the rest. Joel, Eric and Patrick worked together at the front of the second group and came across the line together.

Overall it was a fantastic race and gave us a good insight as to what we need to work on over the next several weeks. For some of us, me, it’s getting off the couch and getting on the bike. Our team showed much strength and with a few more races, we should be at the front of the pack contending for some podium spots.

01/2003

During the month of January Team Penta is planning a training camp in Redlands, CA which will include both MTB and Road riding, racing instruction, training instruction, and peaking and race schedule planning. More updates in this regard post training camp.

Result: A very successful result from our first training camp. Riding included 12,000 feet of climbing, 10 hours in the saddle, and over 150 miles. Otherwise it was a lot of fun, good friends, good food, and those who went returned at a higher level of fitness. We rode in the Redlands area and included much of the neighboring mountains and many sections from the Redlands Classic. Saturday include crossed the entire town of San Bernardino to arrive at the foot of the mountains on Highway 18. We proceeded up to Crestline at about 6000 feet of elevation. Then up even more to the ridge before descending slightly back to Highway 18. Then we continued on to Running Springs (the location of MTB Rim Nordic racing and where the Around the Bear ride passes). From Running Springs we descended down to Highland. Descending was one of the highlights, 40+ miles per hour. Then we headed into East Highland on part of the Redlands Classic TT course, passed over another ridge, and up on the Sunset loop which is part of the Redlands Classic road course. Then we did a lap on the Redlands Crit course for those who have not raced there. On Sunday when did the Oak Glen ride which is again part of the Redlands classic road course, although we did it going the other direction. After ascending and descending Oak Glen we proceeded down San Timitao canyon which is 20 miles long and descends slightly. During this portion we practiced Pacelining at 30+ miles per hour. All in all a great weekend of training and we all came back faster and more fit. The next training camp will be combined with the Around the Bear ride, that will take place on Saturday June 6th with a team MTB training ride on Sunday.