Salty Dogs Cycling Team: Pace Bend Weekend Recap

Thursday: Driveway Series Crit

The Salty Dogs were in action as Brent put in a strong performance in a highly competitive Cat 3/4 race. The race was dynamic, featuring multiple attacks and two small breakaways, both of which Brent helped bring back by working with the chase group.

With two laps to go, he focused on positioning, ensuring he was in the right spot for the final push. At 1K to go, an attack launched, and Brent immediately responded, locking into second wheel. A small gap opened, but the peloton surged, closing it down as they powered through the top section of the course.

Heading into the final corner, Brent was still in prime position, sitting second wheel. However, in the sprint to the line, he didn’t quite have the legs to contest the win. He crossed the line in 5th place, just inches behind longtime rival Phil Wolfe of Capitol Co-Op (OKC), who edged him out in a tight finish.

A solid effort and a great learning experience as the team continues to refine race tactics for the season ahead.

Friday: Pace Bend Criterium

The Salty Dogs were back in action with Jonathan, Mark, RJ (flying in from California), and Brent lining up for a full evening of racing. Mark competed in the Cat 4/5 race, while Jonathan, RJ, and Brent took on the highly competitive Cat 2/3 field.

Cat 4/5 Race

Mark put in a strong performance, staying active throughout and finishing solidly in the pack. His steady progression toward Cat 3 continues to show in his racing.

Cat 2/3 Race

As the sun set, the race intensity ramped up. RJ and Jonathan raced aggressively, attacking and covering moves to keep the pace high. Meanwhile, Brent played it conservative, tail-gunning and sharing a few conversations with fellow racers.

With two laps to go, Brent moved up and followed a dangerous move off the front. However, the break lacked cohesion and was reeled in just before the final lap. In the sprint to the line, Jonathan secured a strong 14th-place finish out of 67 riders, with RJ close behind in 17th. Brent rolled in with the pack to close out the night.

The Austin crit atmosphere was electric, and The Driveway Series remains one of the best venues for racing. The team celebrated post-race with a well-earned meal at a taco shop near downtown Austin, sharing stories and strengthening team bonds.

Saturday: Road Race

The Salty Dogs Cycling Team carried their momentum into Saturday’s road race, arriving fresh and ready for the challenge.

Cat 4 Race

Mark showcased his strength on the 42-mile circuit, riding confidently and working at the front. His efforts paid off with an excellent top-ten finish, reinforcing the team's depth.

Cat 3 Race

Brent and Jonathan maintained strategic positions in the peloton, poised for opportunities. Jonathan found himself in two breakaways; the first lasted three laps before the peloton, driven by Brent, reeled it in. Undeterred, Jonathan jumped on another move with three laps to go, but the break disintegrated when his partner dropped him on a climb.

As Jonathan worked to rejoin, a white Volvo support car from another concurrent race unexpectedly cut in front of the pursuing Cat 3 pack. Rolling at 35mph, Jonathan was struck by the car but managed to stay upright. Frustrated but undeterred, he and Brent pushed to a pack finish.

Pro/1/2 Race

RJ, our California native, took on the 66-mile course, hammering from the start against a strong field. Attacks came fast and often, forcing RJ to burn through his reserves earlier than expected. Though he had to pull out before the finish, his effort embodied the Salty Dog spirit. Having RJ in Texas for the weekend made for an exciting and memorable racing experience.

Sunday: Circuit Race

After a long Saturday, the team regrouped at their rented home in the Austin suburbs, refueling with pasta and reviewing race footage. With RJ set to fly back, the focus turned to refining tactics for Mark’s Cat 4 race and Jonathan and Brent’s positioning in the Cat 3 event.

Cat 4 Race

Mark raced brilliantly over 42 miles, securing an impressive 11th-place finish out of 33 riders. His endurance and tactical awareness continue to improve with each race.

Cat 3 Race

Riding smart, Jonathan and Brent assessed the competition from mid-pack as attacks were neutralized. The group slowed on the hill leading into the feed zone each lap, and the downhill sections saw little aggression.

With one lap to go, Jonathan positioned himself in the top five, responding to moves without fully committing. Spotting an opportunity in the feed zone, he launched a sneaky seated attack up the hill. Brent quickly moved up to block and support his breakaway teammate.

Jonathan held a solid gap, but after soloing at his limit, he encountered yet another support car in the final 200 meters. Overwhelmed by fatigue and wind, he was caught by a late surge and finished with the pack.

Looking Ahead

It was a weekend filled with attacks, breakaways, and valuable race experience. The Salty Dogs are embracing their competitive spirit and learning to play an active role in shaping races. As the season progresses, the team will continue refining their tactics, building strength, and delivering more exciting performances on the road.

Stay tuned—there’s plenty more racing to come!

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