Hoffenberg Leads Strong County Effort in Cycling

Mark Hoffenberg of Laguna Niguel defended his title in the men’s 30-34 age-group criterium in the U.S. Cycling Federation masters’ national championships as the Nissan/Schwinn team from Orange County dominated the 65-kilometer race in Long Island.

“We controlled that race,” said Mark Thomas of Rancho Santa Margarita, who finished 12th. “At the start of the race, we all went to the front and we kept the pace high. Then we started attacking in groups of two or three. We were initiating most of the attacks. There were 94 riders out there, but our team just dominated.

“We sent about seven riders out on the break and the rest of us were doing blocking and chasing down anybody who tried to bridge. Halfway through the race, I knew it was over.”

Hoffenberg won the 30-34 event Sunday with most of his teammates close behind. Bob Pellkofer of Long Beach was third, Mike Martin of Costa Mesa seventh, Scott McPherson of Laguna Hills 11th, Thomas 12th and Evan Teske of Rancho Santa Margarita 13th.

Ken Fuller of Anaheim defended his title in the men’s 40-44 division and Dave Cobb of Orange was 11th in the men’s 35-39 criterium.

Competition continues today with a 40-kilometer time trial over a hilly road course. The 115-kilometer road race will be Thursday.