Shriver Wins Masters Men 35-39 at the 2015 National Championships: Race Report, Full Results

Matt Shriver won the Masters 35-39 race after a big battle with Jacob Lasley. © Cyclocross Magazine

Austin, TX- Although the fastest lap time was recorded an hour before, the Master’s Men were not going to let the other young masters show them up too much. Matt Shriver (Trek Cross Collective), and most of the field in the race, dug themselves into an early hole as road hero Jacob Lasley (Soundpony Triad Bank) took off early once he hit the pavement early in the second lap. Shriver knew he needed to battle back, and would go on to record the second fastest time on the day in the process.

Lasley sprinted forward out of the saddle, and by the time he veered around the course alone, he created a larger gap, clearly putting in an intense effort early on the day. Shriver worked with the other riders early on, and the chasers’ pace was brutal as the Trek rider reported how difficult it was keeping their pace. Once he caught his breath on the technical areas, he found himself ready to push harder.

Shriver surged forward, knowing that he had a chance to catch Lasley eventually if he kept making ground on the back of the course, laden with off-cambers. Every time they hit the pavement, however, Lasely pressed the pace and made a gap. With two to go, in the windy section between the two limestone staircases, Shriver made contact, and was able to leave the Oklahoma rider behind.

Matt Shriver (Trek Cyclocross Collective) exhausted post-race. © Brian Nelson

When asked if he was able to learn anything from teammates Sven Nys and Katie Compton, Shriver’s answer to Cyclocross Magazine was instant: “Tire pressure,” he said. “It sounds like it’s only a minor deal, but it can really change the feel of the ride.”

Shriver, who is used to the tough, European conditions at the World Stage, was impressed with what he saw at Zilker Park, and enjoyed the technical areas which played to his strengths.

2015 National Championships, Masters 35-39