THE ACTIVIST

Brent’s career has far exceeded expectations with palmares including multiple Tour de France appearances, one Olympic Games, and a myriad of one-day Classics, World Championships, and stage races. Entering his second decade as a pro, the 40-year-old is driven to use his experience to increase interest and exposure of cycling to a broader community.

Rebuild Black Mountain

Brent and Jamie have called Western North Carolina home for more than a decade and what drew them there was their love of the mountains and trails.

In the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastation in September 2024, Brent and Jamie co-founded Rebuild Black Mountain, a community-driven initiative dedicated to the long-term recovery and resilience of Western North Carolina.

By focusing on trails, parks, and public spaces vital to the region’s economy and well-being, the organization fosters resilience and sustainability for future generations. Brent’s commitment to his local community shines through his efforts to ensure Western North Carolina remains a vibrant, thriving place to call home.

Bookwalter Binge

Founded by Brent and Jamie, the Bookwalter Binge is a non-profit organization that has a mission of giving back to the community that supports the event.

Held annually from 2014-2022, funds raised by The Binge Gran Fondo were deployed to protect the environment through land conservation, a cause that runs deep with Brent and Jamie Bookwalter.

veteran RACER        

While actively racing, Brent served on the Board of Directors for the ANAPRC (Association of North American Professional Road Cyclists) and as the Men's Pro Athlete Representative for USA Cycling's Professional Athletes Sports Committee. 

With both organizations, Brent was motivated to build upon the knowledge and experience he's garnered from 16 years of racing in the professional peloton. He aimed to increase interest and exposure of cycling to a broader community and heighten professionalism and safety within the peloton.

promoting the american collegiate system

Brent serves as a real life example how the collegiate cycling system being a viable path to professional racing! Brent attended Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, North Carolina where he raced three different disciplines - road, MTB and cyclocross. He graduated with honors with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. 

Brent credits his experience at Lees-McRae as a student-athlete with helping him build a diverse skills background while thriving in a fun environment. Brent's collegiate experience allowed him to grow and progress to the professional level upon graduation.