Team Work Pays Off For A Win

by Reed "Tug Boat" Olmstead

July 2, 2008 -- Participants of Concern: Ronnie "Whiskers" Strange, Jason "TT" Bentley, Slade "I Make You Hurt" Lewis
The Challengers: Greg Bauer, Brian Jones, Misc. Bike Barn Riders
Course Description: MP, clockwise (backwards)

While warming up for the race, Ronnie mentioned that he needed 5 points to get his upgrade to Cat 1.  With Kremke out of town on vacation, the primary competition was gone, meaning Ronnie had a good shot at the V.  We decided that we'd work to chase down any breaks, and if things played out with about 20 minutes to go, Ronnie would get in a break.

 

From the gun, it was all Bike Barn.  They attacked relentlessly, and blocked well, too.  A break of 5 went early with 2 BB's and a Sugar rider, and two guys I didn't notice.  They opened a steady gap, eventually getting to about 20 seconds.  In the pack, BB was blocking, and Sugar was working in to help.  15 minutes into the race, I went to the front to try to reel them in.  I put in some good work, but unfortunately wasn't able to bring it back too much, and when I pulled off, there were 3 BB guys right behind me to resume blocking.  Bentley came up later and worked as hard for over a lap, but fell victim to the same BB tactics I did.

About 10 minutes later (now 25 total), the group had become motivated enough and the break was caught.  Immediately, another attack went, again, with BB in it.  This time, it was Slade who put in the work to bring it back.  Other teams were up there as well, but the big jeweler was definitely doing his share.  The threat was neutralized and order was restored momentarily.

I don't remember the exact details (doing 180 bpm+ will do that to you), but around minute 40, a BB rider (Alex Lewis) and a GCCA rider (I think) got off the front with a good gap.  With two well represented teams blocking, chasing it back would be difficult.  I went up to the front just before the 90 and started working to bridge up.  As we came through the start/finish, the bell rang for the preme.  I was working hard, hoping to connect with the break and help work.  I got within about 7 seconds before I cratered.  I slid back to the pack after being out front for over a lap.  Shortly afterwards, the break was caught.

The real action then began with about 5 laps to go.  The pace was picking up with all of BB at the front.  With 3 to go, several riders were again up the road a bit, and I went up to try to catch them.  I wasn't able to get up to them, but I think I made the pack chase some.  I had pretty much blown myself up with my last effort, and was waiting for the pack to catch me.  When I saw them coming, I noticed Ronnie was second wheel.  I figured I'd try to counter my own attack and keep the pace high through the "S" turns on the back of the course.  I jumped again, but didn't have much effect.  I was caught shortly afterwards.  2 laps to go.

At this point, Slade pulled through.  Now I know I don't get to ride with you guys much, so I never really know how everyone else is doing.  Slade had been hanging out towards the front for about 15 minutes and I wasn't sure what his plan was.  Well, as I was drifting to the back, Slade decided it was time to wreak havoc on the pack.  He moved up to the front of the pack and for 1.5 laps, just laid down the power.  I kept thinking I should get up and help him, but I was working my @$$ off trying to hang on as the last rider.  With about .5 laps to go, Slade pulled off and Ronnie took over.  He worked in the front 5 up to the final straight-away, when he poured it on for the win.  Amazing effort.

I think last night really showed how we can work together.  We all busted our butts, and while Ronnie was in the wind some, he didn't have to work too much compared to other weeks.  Bentley and Slade rode incredibly smart races and held position really well, which is something I am entirely incapable of.

It was a great race, and Ronnie deserved the win.  Ronnie, congrats and good luck in the 1's.